#the main character powers are literally dragging him into position

[chocmarss]

When Din fell into the waters I was all, my god he’s being pulled by a tentacled monster. But no, actually, he just slipped over moldy rocks and sank like one to the bottom. Man weighs like a ton or two from how fast he went there. Bo-Katan literally had to jetpacked her way through her old and unfortunately occupied swimming pool to get him.

[bookshelfdreams]

That is certainly - a statement.

What about Jim, who both metaphorically and literally discovers a path for themself beyond what they were raised to be? What about Pete, who learns to overcome his toxic masculinity, his posturing and self-importance? What about Ed, whose entire story is about deconstructing the performance that is expected of him?

What about, oh, idk, our main fucking character Stede Bonnet, whose arc starts with him literally breaking out from the hetero marriage he was forced into despite never fitting in? Who tries (and initially fails) to build a community where he can be himself? Whose entire story is about discovering his own queerness! He starts out not even able to put a finger on WHY his marriage made him feel so suffocated, and then journeys through s1 until he reaches the emotional climax - "His name is Ed"!

Contrast that with Izzy, who has to be dragged into a supportive community kicking and screaming. Who rejects care and compassion, even at his worst, who has to be forced to accept help. He receives the leg and calls the crew a homophobic slur for it, ffs. Only after that, only when people refuse to let him push them away, is he able to poke his nose into something approaching positive human connections. And that's a powerful narrative, sure, in it's own way; but it's hardly the Ultimate Queer Experience, and it's definitely not the "only queer arc".

And Izzy never lets go of the old ways. He never abandons the Blackbeard-era pirate lifestyle for something more positive, not fully. And that's okay, because ultimately, his arc isn't even about himself.

It's about Ed.

Ed keeps repeating toxic relationship patterns, and Izzy is a part of that. He's linked (on purpose, and I wish it had been done more explicitly) to Ed's father; because Izzy represents the poison that was instilled in Ed from a young age, and that has become so entrenched in his system that he can't imagine a life without it. He keeps Izzy around despite being hurt by him because Izzy is predictable, and in that, is safe, even though he hurts Ed; at least it's a hurt Ed is familiar with and can rely on.

When Izzy slowly changes it's to show that Ed is growing beyond the little voice in his head telling him to reject softness, that he can never be loved, that We're just not these kinds of people. If Izzy can evolve from someone spitting boyfriend at Ed like it's a slur to someone congratulating him on getting laid by that same person, Ed can overcome his inner demons telling him the same thing.

That's the point of Izzy's arc. And this is why he has to die, because Ed can never be truly free as long as Izzy is around. So Izzy goes, quietly, peacefully, and releases Ed of the poison; apologizes to him, tells him I was so wrong, and I am so sorry, because that's what Ed needs to hear to move forward.

And that's such a kind, positive way to end the story of Izzy Hands.

[ravensvirginity]

Titans #15 Review

Oh my god. Where do I even begin.

To start with my one and only positive: the art is gorgeous. Lucas Meyer is the best artist the Titans have had in ages, and his new Raven design really delivered. I'm so sad that it appears that the artist who'll be taking over for him in #16 is undoing his design changes, I think it's a massive shame. I did appreciate the detail of Raven's white cloak design having rings on her index fingers, but it feels a little pointless without the lore of Azar's rings to back it up.

Now, the negatives: literally everything else about this comic. This comic fails to deliver on an eight issue arc in any kind of satisfying way, has a bizarre and out of character tone, and severely misunderstands the lore of its main villain. They literally defeated Trigon with the power of friendship. Maybe that could work in Teen Titans Go, but in a main timeline DC comic? What?

First, the demon Raven stuff. Gar saying that demon Raven and regular Raven aren't two different people--yeah, obviously. The severe degree of separation between demon Raven and regular Raven has been one of the big issues of this arc, and this conclusion is as unsatisfying as the rest of it. Raven and her demon side being able to talk face to face isn't new, but them being two separate people with separate physical bodies who can operate completely independently of each other--while there is some precident for this, to me it's a very strange writing choice and misses the point of a demon Raven arc.

The original idea of Raven and her demon side was that her demon side is her. It's all the worst instincts she inherited from Trigon locked up and carefully controlled. When Trigon takes control of her and turns her into her demon form, everything she's repressed, both good and bad, is released. Raven still having a soft spot for the Titans in her demon form makes sense; she's still Raven, just corrupted by Trigon into something she isn't. Raven deciding to stop being evil (not that she even really was) and going back to normal from one brief conversation with her teammate does not, and is really anticlimactic.

It's just such a waste of the story's potential. If you don't want to commit to Raven being the villain of the story, don't do a demon Raven arc! It's possible to do a Trigon story without Raven being evil, I don't get why they didn't just do that. None of the drama with Raven being evil was particularly well executed, and all it seemed to do was drag the comic on longer and longer with nothing actually happening, because they were unwilling to make Raven actually do anything villanous.

All that pales in comparison to how they defeated Trigon. I don't think I've ever seen such blatant disregard for previous canon. As Raven, powered up by the other Titans, fights Trigon, Gar narrates as follows:

"I doubt Trigon has ever been in a fight. An actual fight. With someone his own size and power level. Never had to face someone like Nightwing one-on-one. Never tried to stand while being pinned by the power of Donna Troy's will. Never been blasted... with a giant-sized Apokoliptian blast from Cyborg. And never, ever... felt the full force of a Tamaranean hit powered by the stars."

WHAT?

This comic canonically takes place in the same timeline as the New Teen Titans. There are many homages to the New Teen Titans. It has been made very clear that the team started as the New Teen Titans, and then after many, many years of crazy comic book history the team reformed as the Titans of this run.

The first ever Trigon arc that introduces him and Raven as characters takes place in the first six issues of the New Teen Titans, and culminates in Trigon being defeated by the Titans and thrown into an interdimensional prison. I can't stress this enough: literally every single one of the things Gar said have never happened to Trigon happen in that fight. Donna uses her lasso to dampen Trigon's will, in combination with Raven and Arella's empathic abilities. Wally rips a hole through the fabric of reality to throw Trigon into, and Kory and Vic connect their powers to amplify their blasts to throw Trigon into the interdimensional rift. The whole thing is coordinated and managed by Dick Grayson (who was still Robin at the time).

Gar was there when all this happened. There is no reason for him to not know that this happened. The only explanation is Tom Taylor doesn't know, or he doesn't care. This would be disappointing for any comic book run, but it leaves an especially sour taste in my mouth for this to happen in a run that's so built on NTT homages. It's clear that the writing could not care less about the comic it was inspired by.

And then Garth causes Trigon to have a heart attack. Okay, that was just stupid. Admittedly, I did think the page of Raven stabbing Trigon was cool (again, the art is really the only saving grace here), but her saying "Fuck you, Dad"? Seriously? An ongoing problem in this run has been the dialog feeling janky and too much like lines from a generic superhero movie, and this line embodies that very well. I'm not opposed to swearing in comic books, but to me, this is not the right time for it. It doesn't fit the moment, and I think it's quite out of character for Raven, even if the sentiment behind it isn't.

And then Trigon isn't even dead? What does "Demons don't die. They just fade away." even mean?? Is he dead or not? Will he come back tomorrow or in a thousand years? It's such a strange, confusing letdown of an ending.

I didn't have high hopes for this issue, but it was somehow worse than I could ever have imagined. I'm so glad that this run is getting a new writer. Here's hoping that the coming issues will actually feel like a team book, and that the decades of lore and characterization of these beloved characters will actually be considered during writing.

[adorawasright]

Hello! I just saw ur post saying g hintlow is badly written in your opinion. Could you please tell me why you think so? I'm kinda curious?

I also didn't really like huntlow since it kinda came outta no where all of a sudden but what do you think??

*cracks knuckles* (just kidding lol)

Honestly, I just think H/untlow has several writing problems. I'll be pointing out the main reasons I think so under the cut. If anyone who follows me or comes across this post ships H/untlow, it's totally fine, just please don't send me hate for what I'll say here:

Hunter and Willow have nothing in common. The show forces the "half a witch" thing onto Hunter despite the fact he was never called that anywhere in the show, he's usually just called annoying or a brat. Besides, Hunter could be a metaphor for disability considering he doesn't have natural magic powers (until the show decided to kill off Flapjack, but I'll get into that later). However, Willow is not the case. She may not be good at abomination magic, but she's incredibly powerful with plant magic. But for some reason, the show treats these experiences as equals, even though that's a thing Hunter has more in common with Luz than Willow (and in this case I'm not talking through a romantic lens).

Hunter and Willow are out of character. Hunter, the prodigy and the emperor's right hand, becomes utterly pathetic and wimpy just so Willow can look like a badass girlboss. And Willow then just comes off as cruel sometimes. I appreciate Willow for being nice but also being a badass, but even then, Willow was never cruel prior to her meeting Hunter. She apologized to Luz when she realized she could've hurt her, and when Willow met Gus she was patient and understanding, teaching him a breathing technique to calm him down. I'm not saying Willow has to be overly nice, but she just randomly captures Hunter to make him join her flyer derby team. And at this point she doesn't even know that Hunter is the Golden Guard, so she just... attacks a random kid and scares him for no reason. Worse yet the fact that she drags him into the ground THE SAME WAY BELOS DOES in Hollow Mind. Even after Hunter tells her he's "half a witch", Willow isn't patient with him, she's just a brute again. Which is my next point:

Unhealthy power dynamic. Hunter refers to Willow as "captain", and it's honestly a red flag to me. I am NOT saying Willow is abusive. However, we have to remember that Hunter's abuser uses his position of power to mistreat him. Hunter looks up to someone who's not an equal to him and in turn, he does not value himself. And Willow never seems to realize it and explicitly say that she's not his leader, she's his friend. This pairing is basically the girlboss/malewife model, but not only does it not make sense, it's not healthy for Hunter to fall in love with someone who has power over him, and who might be paralleled to his abuser as I pointed out before.

Ruined character arcs. I think most of us agree that Hunter's character arc was unsatisfactory as he became another Caleb without ever processing it, but Willow was definitely done dirty as well. Willow never had her own episode, not even Understanding Willow was about her, it was more about Amity. Any Sport in a Storm also focuses more on Hunter. Even Gus had more character development than Willow, despite the fact he was also done dirty in the end. Willow's breakdown wasn't carefully developed, it was never hinted in Thanks to Them or anywhere before that. It came out of nowhere in For the Future, and in turn it just pushed Hunter's character (and Gus, literally) aside so he could save Willow. And this is yet ANOTHER point I hate:

Willow only reciprocates Hunter's crush when he gains powers. Seriously, for the longest time I didn't even think H/untlow was going to be mutual. Only Hunter seemed to be attracted to Willow, by blushing and being shy around her. Willow never seems to see Hunter in another light in the following episodes, not even in Thanks to Them despite them living with each other for months. That only happens in For the Future, which left a bad taste in my mouth. Like I said before, Hunter might be considered disabled, but his disability is "cured" with magic, and ONLY THEN does Willow fall for him. That contradicts the entire message of the show, which welcomes and celebrates disabilities.

And overall, Hunter and Willow never have a genuine emotional connection. Hunter has more connection and things in common with Luz, Gus, and even Amity (and sadly, his parallels with Amity were never really explored after Eclipse Lake). Hunter and Luz don't have magical powers. Hunter and Gus are both taken advantage of by others, and they have an identity crisis, not knowing how to trust themselves anymore. Hunter and Amity then, they were both raised in an abusive household and they're expected to be someone they're not, and they have to push everyone else down so they can be better. But Hunter and Willow don't share this kind of connection. They might touch on the "half a witch" thing but that never deepens. And in For the Future, it comes off as rushed, and Hunter has to push down his grief for Flapjack to save Willow. Not to mention Gus and Hunter never get to talk about Caleb - Gus always knew about Hunter's secret, and not even THAT gets a satisfying payoff because the show is more concerned in making H/untlow canon. But that would have to be its own post.

Sorry this got long, lmao. I have very strong feelings about how H/untlow was handled. I actually used to ship it at first, I think it COULD'VE worked. But they don't even seem to be close friends at the very least. It sucks because even R/aeda was written better despite the fact it had less screentime than L/umity. Sure, Eda and Raine were ex-lovers, but I thought their relationship was written very well for the most part. I don't know how the writers dropped the ball with H/untlow this way.

[cheezeybread]

Back to our regularly scheduled Alice-asking with Anon McGee.

After playing the game for a few hours and getting through some stuff, I have some thoughts. None in particular for any sort of request [although, at the time of writing this specific part, I am unsure of if I'll tack one onto the beginning of this ask [I did not]. I am also unsure of if it will be related at all], but they're still interesting and maybe can be used for this stuff going forward [for as long as I keep requesting such self indulgent things].

1. Teeth are a currency. Not a whole lot to do with that one, but it is incredibly strange to me even still.

2. Many of the enemies are made visibly of this black, ink-like ooze. Not all of them, but a good majority of them. I feel this means overblots may cause additional layers of stress because of the implications it might cause [something to do with the fact that this inky substance was what corrupted Alice's wonderland, it sounds like it COULD be taken as a physical representation of that same kind of corruption, and the overblotter going literally insane. Could be good oneshot fuel?]

3. Alice is actually SUPER chill in the environment of the wonderland aside from when it's actively trying to kill her [although the reaction does not necessarily have to apply to the reader character we've been using as a stressball for these scenarios, I think it's pretty interesting and likely means that the initial reaction to the students of Heartslaybyul would be void should I have known prior to this that wonderland was actually pretty alright and fine for the most part]

4. Another minor detail that doesn't really mean a lot, but in the Hatter's domain, there's flamingos all over the place. While I was exploring, I saw several just sort of Around. In cages, hung up on walls, some- upon entry- were on those like.. Spitroasters or whatever they are. Many were on wheels being forced to run to give power to some machinery. They all looked pretty... Not alive, though. Also, they were strangely dodo shaped, but that's neither here nor there.

That's all I have for the moment regarding that! Feel free to take it and run however you want, I can't think of any specific request I can give relating to any of these except for the overblot one

Dang, this game sounds absolutely vicious, I love it XD

I need to take your mind and put it in a little glass jar filled with water to observe it (meant in a positive way). Maybe shake it around some to see what kinda scenarios pop out.

But the best I can come up with are some *. * ·imagines*. * · to keep your brain occupied for now

Imagine an MC who- in every single fight they get dragged into (which is an awful lot in the game lmao)- stays behind for a moment to collect some of the teeth punched out by spells and fists. The broken ones that are cracked aren't worth much, they say to their friends who ask what they're doing, but the whole teeth can buy you a lot of good things. Much to the horror of the Twisted Wonderland students, it's eventually realized that MC thinks that teeth are a currency here. They don't know why, but can only speculate that it's from the same issues from before... Riddle eventually ends up begging (or as close to begging as he can get-) for Azul to tell you about Twisted Wonderland's currency. Horrified yet intrigued by your grotesque idea of money, Azul teaches you about merfolk economics, as well as the thaumarks people use on land...of course, he's going to try and get you to explain the whole "teeth currency" thing to him, and what makes one tooth worth more than others.

The inky enemies would actually make for a KILLER oneshot, I might have to write something along the lines of it one day... Maybe Twisted Wonderland (or at least, the part that held the Queen of Hearts in it) and Alice's Wonderland are two sides of the same coin...? While they're both in different dimensions (maybe even parallel to one another!), they're both similar. The main difference was that Alice's Wonderland is isolated from the rest of the world, while "Twisted Wonderland" had different cultures and societies to expand with? The isolation caused some in Alice's Wonderland to "Overblot" (or, at least, some form of it) and become enemy bosses. So maybe Overblots are slightly different in each world, but they're still present!

Imagine an MC who (after having a few breakdowns at first regarding Heartslabyul) eventually calms down...to the point where everyone gets extremely worried about them. Riddle accidentally says "Off with your head!" to an unruly student within their earshot, but MC is so chill that they look...almost zoned out, their eyes glazed over. Like they're in a completely different world. As the overblots go on throughout their stay in Twisted Wonderland, MC's calm demeanor only gets worse. They don't seem to react hardly at all to- well, anything. It's like they've just accepted where they are and the danger they're in.

Mmm short and squat dodo-like flamingos. I like to think that our poor MC, after first seeing the flamingos in Heartslabyul, didn't actually see them, but saw their not-quite-alive bodies wandering around, some being roasted over a fire, others lurking ominously behind bushes, some in cages. All some form of injured or deadish. It would most definitely take a while until MC could see the creatures as they truly were (that is, alive and well, and most definitely not so creepy), but until then, they take it in stride. No one even knows how MC sees the flamingos until they offhandedly mention it one day, and Cater's just like "....no?? Why would we be roasting flamingos???"

[fake-married-my-dead-fiance]

Fear is a huge driver of plot in Alchemy of Souls and most of it is centered around Jang Uk and Naksu. Almost every character's main motivation is fear except Naksu (revenge) and Jang Uk. (This is long)

Park Jin is terrified that Jang Uk will fulfill his destiny because his main goal is to maintain social order. He is therefore fully committed to impeding any progress Jang Uk might make. His turning point (finally) is the near death of Seo Yul, probably not because he actually loves Yul or Uk for themselves, but because as everyone acknowledges, Seo Yul being killed by Jin Mu will overturn the social order (General Seo will invade Daeho Fortress and start a war). Park Jin knows Jang Uk will try to save Yul, so he supports him.

(I'm pretty sure the only major decision he makes motivated by love is trying to save Maid Kim from Jinyowon, everything else is to preserve social order. He's extreme lawful good)

Go Won spends most of S1 trying not to be afraid of Jang Uk/the concept of a King Star, because he doesn't want to be like his father who is terrified of the prophesied King Star's existence. Jin Mu eventually succeeds in making Go Won afraid which results in Jang Uk's death (it doesn't take). But then in S2, with a Jang Uk who is 100x more terrifying, Go Won realizes that he doesn't have to be afraid because Jang Uk doesn't want to be king and will use his power protectively:

Which means that Jin Mu can no longer control Go Won through fear, as he is able to do with the king and basically everyone else.

Jin Mu definitely fears what Jang Uk might become, since he can be displaced from his position of power if Uk ever becomes a real mage.

And yet, he mostly makes other people afraid of Uk instead of really fearing Jang Uk himself. This is probably because Jin Mu believes that compassion and protection are signs of weakness. I think the only time he really believes Uk might kill him is when Seo Yul is dying. What he fears the most is being rejected by those in power, which is why when Go Won turned on him he was so angry.

The king and the Unanimous Assembly decide to release the fire bird because they both fear and envy Jang Uk and his ice stone. As for the general population, they generally fear super-powered Jang Uk but also want him around (just not like, too close) because they are more frightened of soul shifters. They both fear and idolize Naksu and are manipulated with their fear.

And to quickly include Lady Jin, her fear is centred around losing control of Jinyowon, which is why she searches so desperately for Bu-yeon, is dismissive of her under-powered second daughter, and is so determined to keep resurrected Naksu/Bu-yeon under control.

Seo Yul is complicated because he doesn't know what Jang Uk is until pretty late in the game, he mostly is afraid of what Jang Uk is doing (hanging out with a soul shifter, Naksu herself) and what his beliefs will result in (which to be fair was a legitimate fear given what happens at the end of S1). He is also afraid of breaking his personal moral code:

And then we have Maid Kim, who is literally never afraid of Jang Uk, she just loves him no matter what. By S2 she knows exactly who he is and that he's haunted by ghosts and she does not care. "Oh my super-powered adopted son is home to spend a haunting night, let's make sure he's comfortable!"

What she is afraid of is Naksu: she thinks her sword is ominous, she holds a funeral for Cho Yeong so that Naksu's spirt won't attack Jang Uk, and she fears that Naksu will drag Jang Uk to the grave in S2. However, her fear is never centered on herself, she's pretty much only afraid because she wants to protect Uk (like mother like son). Which is why she's one of the good characters, her fear isn't selfish.

When it comes to Naksu/Cho Yeong and Jang Uk, they are never really afraid of each other or really drive by fear, unlike everyone else. Jang Uk recognizes Naksu right away, isn't afraid of her threats at all, and then sends men to capture her. He's almost immediately willing to put his life in her hands.

His motivation is more to prove himself, which is both about himself and his mother whose memory he is trying to protect by convincing people that he's Jang Gang's son.

Cho Yeong's motivation in S1 is revenge at least at first, which she needs her powers back to have. But then she switches to protection and remains that way through S2.

Naksu doesn't have any reason to fear Jang Uk in S1. Then in S2, even when she has no memory of who she is, she is very much not afraid of him. Even when he threatens her:

She takes like a whole minute to let go and step away from him. And when she sees the ice stone, she decides to try and use him rather than retreat in fear.

But of course all Naksu/Jang Uk plot is driven by both of them running straight towards things that they should fear, including each other. They are the antithesis of living in fear, they chose protection and love (and constantly being in mortal danger) instead.

[tobiasdrake]

The thing that gets me about Kyon is that I feel like he could have been a very interesting character. There was a lot of potential here, that wasn't able to come to fruition because I don't think it's what the creators had in mind when they were making this.

The thing I keep coming back to with Kyon is that he is the victim of a controlling and coercive power dynamic. I talked about this in Live Alive; Kyon is being targeted by someone who possessively desires him, who he can't simply refuse outright because she has measures of control.

And that is a dynamic with a wealth of potential. Kyon is in a position of victimization that we rarely get to see male characters portrayed in.

The show goes to great lengths to demonstrate Haruhi's abuse of Kyon. The way she physically drags him around by his tie. Mikuru telling him multiple times that they can't be a thing because Haruhi deleted the universe last time she got jealous of them. Refraining from flirting with those girls in Live Alive, not because he likes Haruhi but because he's afraid of her seeing him flirt with women.

Kyon is having to walk a tightrope between having boundaries and appeasing his abuser. He's having to adjust his behavior to avoid setting her off. Because he is not in a position where he can simply walk away. He's literally not allowed a voice in the matter. She controls his life.

The show goes to great lengths to present Kyon's victimization.

But what it isn't willing to do is to let Kyon be presented as a victim.

Because that isn't the angle they're going for. They're going for a "Shallow male protagonist that you can project onto" / "Sassy Waifu" romance.

So they keep Kyon's characterization aloof, giving him shallow opinions like "Mikuru sure is hot!" and "Ugh, Haruhi is being annoying again." The show refrains from examining him in any real capacity because its primary goal for him is just to be the designated love interest.

It can't follow the threads that are floating around Kyon because the natural conclusion of those threads would be Haruhi letting Kyon go. Eternal Eight even puts a finger on it with the exchange of,

Hey Kyon. Hey. Hey, Kyon. The cicada is a metaphor for you. But I don't expect you to get that because your main job in this show is to have the plot explained to you over and over.

Like. They literally put a finger on it and say, "Kyon is a bug in a cage that Haruhi needs to release. And only an idiot would come back."

They know. They have to know that this is the dynamic.

But it doesn't go anywhere. It can't be examined with the severity it deserves because it would get in the way of the ship. Examining Haruhi's abuse of Kyon is not the goal. The goal is for them to make out and live happily ever after, and they're going to keep shoving Haruhi down Kyon's throat until that happens.

This character has all of the pieces he needs to be a genuinely interesting and engaging protagonist. He just. Isn't allowed to be.

[yyyyanyan]

Book Club: The Heroes of Olympus series by Rick Riordan

part 2 of my Camp Halfblood Chronicles binge!

It had suchhh a strong start with The Lost Hero. I love all three of them to bits (especially Jason but also ALL of them are my babies I'm holding them in my palms). The Roman/Greek split blew my mind when I first read this book years ago and honestly I'm still kind of processing it LOL. I'm obsessed with how Piper works on her charmspeak and getting comfortable in her own skin and Leo and his relationship with his fire powers??? god amazing!! And Jason I always felt like was such a strong stern type and I'm just attached to him. I think specifically he came off super perfect at first (especially with how Piper had her crush on him) and it was so pleasant to see him failing.

I like The Son of Neptune slightly less but not for any specific reason I can pinpoint--I think I just really vibed with the Jason-Piper-Leo trio. I did think it was absolutely sick that we got to see Percy is utterly insanely powerful and Hazel's backstory had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I also have a soft spot for Frank since he's Chinese-Canadian (one nitpick: what is his Chinese name Fai supposed to be?).

Unfortunately, I really lost my drive by the third and fourth books ToT I think there was just too many POVs and every time I was getting in the swing of things it was time for a new character in a new situation. And I'm sorry but Tartarus was such a drag for me!! I feel like I didn't get enough of a sense of just how miserable and horrible it was and honestly I just felt sad for Bob/Iaepetus all the time. The one positive of the variety of perspectives was, again, seeing Percy being a madlad from outsider POV <3

Anyways once once I finished Book 4 and went to the last book (Blood of Olympus) it went way faster--I was so excited about reading from Reyna's and Nico's perspectives! Reyna and Nico are sooo good together they're my #1 brotp (maybe). Honestly though once I got to this point I was kind of like, "seven halfbloods" answering the call feels so arbitrary to me? Both Reyna and Nico play such critical roles--especially Nico--that I feel kind of robbed that they're not officially listed as people in the prophecy. This is also the place where I say: ngl I think Annabeth being one of the seven was totally lame LOL (I like Annabeth though!) I feel like she had more of a supporting role and her Athena prophecy could have been a quest that was helping this big one (also 'cause it wasn't listed in this one). However this is definitely also my Nico bias talking because Nico is definitely one of my top blorbos in PJO

Anyways it's been like maybe two or three weeks since I finished the whole series and I have to say the ending was really underwhelming to me. I'm literally not even sure I could tell you what happened in Blood of Olympus in detail. I was so sure it was going to be even more epic and even grander and it kind of totally missed the mark? I remember being so moved and feeling the battles in The Last Olympian so vividly and this one felt so weak. I also thought that Gaea would be like... more prominent I guess? I literally think Tartarus ended up being more scary and he featured so much less. The final defeat was so underwhelming lmao :'D

Kind of related to the above is: I also felt more and more as the series went on that Leo really was a seventh wheel, in the sense that he just didn't seem as close to everyone else. I wish his relationship with Frank had been less prickly especially after the main point of their antagonism was resolved (like why did Leo ALWAYS have to make Frank the butt of the joke?), and I also wish the weird almost-Hazel/Leo thing just didn't happen? I feel like at that point she already liked Frank and neither she nor he really got invested in the sort-of-romance and I feel like if they had just settled into just being friends after the whole revelation thing then it would have made sense. It was exciting that Leo was the key to winning the battle, but I felt like it lacked emotional impact because he felt so separate from them all. Calypso and Leo ARE the cutest though and I was/am rooting so hard for them

The last thing is, I feel like there were a lot of like... plot points that didn't go anywhere? I can't tell if they were put in so they would get resolved in the third series but I'm kind of disappointed that they weren't dealt with in this series. So the ones that I picked up/am really interested in are:

Percy getting more violent/merciless and being scared of it

Jason's sort of... struggle between Roman and Greek? Specifically I feel like in the first book he was so Roman and then suddenly it became that he had a conflict(??) and felt more Greek. I guess with this one it's less that it was unresolved but more it came out of nowhere for me and I kind of wish it had been laid out more from the beginning. I will continue my salt in my ramblings of the sequel series btw

Hazel coming back from the dead?? Did Nico just see her and go "I'm taking her" and that was it lol or was there something else...?

[chaosoftheages]

Father & Son Character Headcanons!!!

I've established quite a few of my own Headcanons for most of the F&S characters, not including my OC's who have their own bios now on my OC list, so I'm giving Alan's characters my own personal headcanons for Father & Son.

(Also, if nobody noticed, I gave my standalones an actual title and connected them, so they'll have their own headcanon page later. This will be added to my pinned post eventually.)

Anyways-

Headcanons!

Purple(Nickname: Little flower):

Very sensitive

Has abandonment issues

Inherited his father's sass and attitude

Dropped Navy's last name. Fully adopts Orchid's last name, Rose.

Very scared his power will become unstable and he will hurt someone

Loves clear, sunny days.

Still has most of the scars from the major battles in the early books.

Both very affectionate and not affectionate at all. Like, he will fall asleep cuddling next to King, or physically push him away.

Considers Gold his adoptive brother, and often refers to Sapphire as his sister in law.

Has a surprisingly strong internal system, despite the constant stabbings, major battles, and comas he is put under.

Very street smart

Can space out very easily

Has anxiety

Defenitely has PTSD

Still worried King will turn on him

Always on high alert. With how much Navy has come back, it's become a habit

Has insomnia. Usually can only fall asleep unless he's near King

Still partially processing Orchid's affair

Has chronic headaches and will sometimes look like he's still brainwashed.

Has a necklace King gave him. Always wears it. Protects it with his life. Literally his all-time favorite gift. Will probably kill someone with an energy ball if it gets damaged or broken.

Has a lot of self-doubt and personal self problems. King usually drags him out of the hole with a hug and positive affirmations.

Has a higher self confidence as the series progresses.

Believes in reincarnation, not in a "I can just resurrect myself from dead with these random powers I somehow acquired while attempting to kill somebody" kind of way

King Orange

Protective of all of the kids, but especially protective of Purple

Fears losing Purple

Very attached to Purple. He's scared of losing another child over a stupid mistake.

Cherishes the genuine smiles Purple gives. They aren't very common anymore, with how much the kid has gone through, so he absolutely adores seeing Purple look genuinely happy.

Purple's main support system. Usually holds him when he's having a breakdown and cuddles him until he falls asleep.

Kept an old test staff from when he was avenging Gold as a precaution. While Yellow has the Command Block Staff, King will usually grab Alan's Minecraft block as a last resort.

On occasion will have nightmares, whether it's Purple in danger or any of the other kids. They scare him.

Scared he'll drive Purple away because of a trivial mistake.

Just in general loves Purple. Will probably kill Navy on his own if there's ever a time that they can't bring Purple back

Slightly weary of Gold's relationship with Sapphire, but supportive nonetheless.

Adores seeing Gold and Purple bond. He thinks it's cute, and loves that Purple sees Gold as an adoptive sibling.

Has trouble trusting that Purple knows what he's doing, but grows out of that phase as the series goes on. He does it out of fear that Purple is going to get himself killed or even severely injured.

Chosen

Very protective of Second and the CG

Will murder anyone who messes with Dark

Scared of losing Dark because of what's happened in the past.

Purple's third supporter, next to King and Dark.

Between all three hollow heads, he is the most level headed.

Has insomnia

Tries not to start fights, and is reasonable with what he says if they do start. The last time he and Dark had a fight, he almost lost Dark forever, and he doesn't want that happening again

Finds Dark's exaggeration of things incredibly hilarious

Will hug so tight and never let go. Dark knows this very well.

Occasionally stays the night in Second's room to keep watch over him.

Enjoys teasing Dark. He acts like an older brother to him. Dark finds it annoying and will usually tease him back as payback.

Can be sensitive and emotional

Loves it when Dark calls him "Cho"

Dark

Loves calling Chosen "Cho"

Knows how the Virabots work, even though Navy has rewired them entirely.

Kept the ViraBands as a precaution and last resort. He and Purple both have a ViraBand just in case(Dark's in the black in red from AVA, and Purple's is a mix of purple and blue)

Complains about Chosen's incredibly tight hugs. Deep down, he absolutely loves them. Will usually hug him equally tight.

Purple's secondary supporter.

Has more nightmares than Chosen

Between all three hollowheads, he is hotheaded and reckless.

Will say hurtful words, and then automatically regret them later. Will hate himself for it.

Equally protective of the CG

Is close with Purple and Yellow specifically.(He and Purple kind of trauma bonded and are good at working together, and he and Yellow are some of the smartest people in the group.)

Second

Annoyed at Chosen and Dark's protectiveness, but accepts it. He knows King does the exact same thing with Purple(though Purple is more accepting of the affection and cherishes it)

Occasionally camps out in Red's room. He knows Red had been hit the hardest in the first three books, and in book 6, so he tries comforting him as best as he can.

Extremely protective of the CG, Purple included. Will 100% use his powers if they are threatened.

Very scared that his powers will become out of control. He's still learning about them, like Purple, and is nervous about how crazy they've gotten in the past

His eyes flicker green and his body glows green when he's using his powers.

Whenever he uses a large amount of power, his body will be covered with green electricity, like paralysis.

Very sleep deprived(He blames Green.)

Red

Has PTSD

Has insomnia

Occasionally has nightmares about what he's been through

Purple helps him with his animals

Between the other members of the CG, he's the closest to Purple and Second

Sensitive

Has a bracelet with the CG's colors mixed into it.

Uses fidget toys often

Has anxiety

Is the most childish between all six of the CG members

Next to Purple, he is the most traumatized.

Loves baggy sweaters.

Can tame literally any Minecraft mob.

Yellow

One of the three smartest characters

Between Alan's pc-dwellers, he is the most sarcastic and has the most sass(the title is quickly taken by Purple out of the entire cast)

Tries to be very scientific and logical

Very reasonable

Can very quickly rewire literally any one of Navy's machines. He never gets the chance, but he could do it.

One of the swiftest. Easily able to take out any guards if you give him weapons and a decent chance.(This is very important in the infection au)

VERY sleep deprived.

Addicted to coffee.

Loves insulting Green

Literally Blue's best friend.

Green

Stays up all night playing music. Won't let Second sound-proof his room

Loves trying to annoy Purple in the middle of the night.

Very sarcastic.

Loves to pick verbal fights with Navy whenever he gets a chance

Argues with Yellow on the daily

The strongest in hand-to-hand combat.

Will absolutely start a fight in Purple's honor(Mocha almost lost a nose because of that)

Can roller skate very well(Purple taught him)

Actually does become good friends with Scarlet. His friends love teasing him about their relationship as much as Sapphire is teased about her relationship with Gold

Easily ticked off. Will either start insulting someone into a mental breakdown, or just start throwing hands if you give him a chance

Has an on-off rivalry with King. Purple finds it both annoying and hilarious.

Will 100% let King hear it if he hurts Purple. Like, he will absolutely go insane(King's grateful Green didn't find out that he let Purple run out in the middle of a thunderstorm.)

Blue

Still a netherwart addict.

Basically the gang's alchemist. It's his role in his and Yellow's dynamic too.

Very sensitive

Will let someone hear it if they mess with Yellow.

Loves having one-on-one sleepover campouts with Yellow.

The gangs chef. Probably rivals a chef in Stick City somewhere.

The calmest and most levelheaded between the six of them.

Still weary of Dark

Good friends with Copper.

Is a literal mother hen with the CG. Alan finds it hilarious.

Gold

Protective of Purple.

Slightly weary of Mocha's old friends because of what they did to Purple and Sunny, but accepting of them.

Has playful banter with Copper over his relationship with Sapphire

Loves scavenger hunts.

Still traumatized from the festival and the Minecraft incident.

Has a necklace from Purple. Cherishes it.

Has scars on his arms and upper body from the Minecraft incident

Loves going to arcades. Will drag Purple with him on occasion.

Still spends time with King a lot.

Loves going to the movies. Will take Sapphire there as a date every so often

Navy

Literally just pure evil

Very smart

Feels no remorse for what he's done to Purple

Questions if Purple really is his biological son after the affair between Night Shade and Orchid is revealed

Has not talked to his parents in years. Didn't even talk to them after leaving Orchid and Purple.

Took way to long to realize that Orchid was dead. Didn't even know of it until Night Shade brought it up while they were plotting their second attempt at getting rid of Purple(meaning he didn't know she was dead until book 2)

Wonders how the fuck Purple is still alive

Has full control of the ViraBots. Doesn't realize that Dark can easily hack into them.

Has major anger issues

Has completely forgotten how to fight in hand-to-hand combat. Has gotten way too used to fighting Purple in the sky with energy balls and ViraBands to even remember(this happens in books 9-10)

Orchid

Still partially sane

Feels a little remorse for what she's done to Purple, but not enough to break through Navy's mind control.

Still very weak. The illness that killed her originally(pre-series) is still inside of her, and it weakens her physical strength

Not really ashamed of her affair with Night Shade. She thinks he deserved to know the pain he was giving to her. Did not realize a child would come out of it.

Feels guilty for dropping Amethyst with Night Shade right off the bat. She knew deep down that Navy would kill her if he ever learned Orchid had a child with another person.

Never knew that Navy and Night Shade were related. She just thought that they were really close friends.

Originally gave Purple the nickname "my little prince". It is used it two different ways in the series: Navy uses it to taunt Purple, and King changes it to "my little flower" as an affectionate nickname for Purple

Didn't use Navy's last name, Ribbon. This follows Purple, who drops Ribbon and uses Rose.

[sidsinning]

Also, can I make a bit of a defense for Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)?

Like, there are a lot (A LOT) of flaws with the movie and the character that I absolutely agree with. Very valid criticisms.

But out of all the Disney Princesses, Aurora is the most alone. There is literally not a single character on her side in that movie. And by "on her side" I mean cares about her wants and need, cares about autonomy. (Except maybe Phillip, but that's someone she barely knows). She doesn't even have an animal sidekick that's with her all the time.

Like, she grew up with the only people to talk to being the Three Fairies. She thought she was going to have a pretty normal life. Except, nope, her Father who she has never met and cannot know his temperment is the King. And not only is he demanding her back at the castle she doesn't remember being in, she is told she has to marry a Prince she doesn't know. That's terrifying.

And what do the three women who raise her do? Force her to go. Like, they are literally there dressing her up as she is sobbing. She doesn't want this but they just pat her and tell her she's gotta do it. The people who raise her might look at her with pity, but they aren't gonna help her get out of this. She doesn't know anything about her father and he could be an incredibly cruel person. (I'm sure the textile workers of the country don't think positively of him).

Like, I'm not really sure what Aurora COULD do to escape her situation. With what skills is she supposed to escape a King? Is she supposed to scale the wall? And I would be afraid to piss off a King, I can see her being afraid since she has literally never met the man. Not to mention the fairies seem to think she is supposed to be THERE. Wouldn't they just drag her back?

She's just sixteen and has no one. Who can she turn to? Animal companions she is only shown with once? That aren't even named? The random boy she met once in the woods that she was supposed to meet again? Not like he knows where she is.

Like, Cinderella has her fairy Godmother and the mice to help her.

Snow White has the dwarves.

Aurora literally has no one.

And yeah, the story turns out well in the end. Her Dad isn't an ass. Prince Phillip turns out to be the guy in the woods. But gosh, she couldn't have known that. She just knew that she had no power over her situation.

And, like, there are still so many problems with her character, but I just really like her. She is NOT a heroine. But not every person gets to be a heroine.

You see, this is what I'm talking about though. Her problems in the end aren't really problems or struggles. Everything magically works out for her in the end to which she had no hand in. She was panicking and sad for like, a day, 98% of which was because she can't like a boy she talked to for 20 minutes off screen (she showed no sign of being worried about how the king would be), before falling victim to the sleeping curse. When she woke up suddenly she's a rich princess with kind parents marrying the boy she loved in the forest who turned out to be the prince the entire time. No lesson, no adversaries, no actions taken by her. The one who faces a challenge to conquer with stakes in the end is Phillip.

She has the literal opposite of "no one". Every single character except for the actual villain is on her side even if she doesn't know it yet.

She could've at least tried to put up a fight against the fairies to show some backbone, but she silently goes along with them and stays still and cries. She can be shown TRYING to run away at least, even if she doesn't succeed, but she doesn't. I don't need her to be a sword wielding badass, I need her to have determination.

And yeah, the problem is that she SHOULD be a heroine, should be the maker of her own story- she is the main character to which the movie is named after. But sadly she isn't, which is the problem. She has a complete and utter lack of agency for the entire movie which is disappointing.

Again, like what you like! These are just my thoughts on her.

[auggusst]

Do you have other OCs? What are they like?

I have SO MANY ocs. Literally over 30 for WoW alone. But my main WoW characters(as in the ones I focus on the most And the ones that fill the role of the actual player in game/get all the big lore moments and powers) are Kimbetheli and her husband Jonathan: an optimistic and sweet warlock and a charming and lackadaisical rogue.

Kimbetheli is just. So sweet. She can win pretty much anyone over with her authentic happy attitude and big heart. She really cares about people, and wants to help everyone she can. Part of it comes from a traumatic childhood, so she has a bit of a savior/caregiver complex, and it can sometimes cause trouble, but she's clever enough and has enough support to get through anything.

She's very powerful; she's one of the most powerful warlocks in Azeroth, and her command of demons is impressive. She is not to be trifled with in combat. Her excessive use of fel energy, all for the sake of good, has resulted in a massive fel scar that originates in the center of her back and has crawled all the way up her shoulder and the side of her neck. If she attempted to become more powerful, it would likely rip her apart. She was very sick for a long time, particularly after the Legion campaign, when she had no choice but to obtain more power to help stymie the demon invasion.

She has a Wrathguard in her employment/bound to her, named Az'Barash, and he is a big dude, her bodyguard for all intents and purposes, and he's quite reserved but has been known to vocalize the occasional judgment. He's knowledgeable in terms of war strategy, and is physically formidable. He has the strength to almost cleave a man in two with his longblade.

She suffered quite a bit of mistrust in her early adventuring days, because warlocks historically have been less than virtuous, and often downright evil, but she proved herself time and time again, and now, as co-leader of one of the most significant guilds/auxiliary forces in Azeroth, her positive reputation precedes her.

Jonathan, more commonly referred to as "Blerple," which is a nickname given to him in his youth by gnomes, is snarky, clever, and very handsome. He's very much a "mind your own business" type person though, doesn't seek out strangers or dive headfirst into situations like Kim does. He has a penchant for trouble and has notoriously bad luck though; he can and will get dragged into any and every situation regardless of his desire to engage or avoid it. He had quite a traumatic childhood, which he is very private about, and it contributed to his preference for his strange nickname as opposed to his proper name. He came from a prevalent family, so was technically a little rich boy turned street rat.

While Kimbetheli is the more powerful one overall, Blerple is still quite a formidable adversary. He has incredible sleight of hand, makes an excellent thief, and his ability to charm others in conversation allows him to eavesdrop and obtain information easily. He's got an excellent memory(except when he doesn't, like the time he misplaced his hearthstone which had disastrous consequences) so is perfect for reconnaissance.

He dual wields shortblades/daggers, is very swift, and has a wide array of poisons at his disposal, and his interest in engineering has allowed him to design and create a handful of devices to aid in his travels. He can find a way out of any situation, if he has enough time. He thinks on his feet. That quickness of thought is the very thing which saved his life as a child. He doesn't like speaking about what happened to his family, but anyone around Stormwind territory can recognize his last name(which is why he avoids speaking it.)

He had the pleasure of making a good name for himself though in the very organization he and Kimbetheli now co-lead; It's former leader became a father figure for him in his late teens/early 20s, but he definitely has left a sour taste in more than one mouth, either through purposeful meddling or genuine misfortune, and it often comes back to haunt him. He was a lot more of a troublemaker then, before the world grew too serious, and the burden of responsibility fell on his back. But he and Kim share that responsibility, and take it quite seriously; They do whatever they can when they can, and sometimes don't get enough time for themselves because of it, which is a real shame.

They are just. So perfect together. Blerple loves her to the moon and back; he will do anything and everything he can for Kim, is often dragged into good samaritan situations by her, which he will definitely complain about, but always does what he can to help, and finds a sense of satisfaction in pleasing her, and in making a difference in people's lives. They make an incredible team, have done some incredible things together over the years and been through countless life or death situations. He always has her back and she has his. Basically, they make each other better people, help each other thrive.

She brings out this softness in him, lets him be vulnerable in a way no one else does. And he makes her feel loved and supported, lets her light shine brightly; She lost her family at a young age, and struggled to find connections in her youth, didn't have a group of people to love her the way he ended up finding. So having someone to care about and to be cared for in return is incredible to her. He makes her laugh frequently, and feel valued, and she just,,,, god she loves him so much. Every day she looks at him and feels this sense of warmth spread all through her, this sense of fondness that never wears off.

They're a very affectionate couple. Blerple is a very physical guy in general; He gestures often, is very expressive, and when he's around Kim, he feels the need to be physically connected to her; he holds her hand, or plays with her hair, or wraps an arm around her. He speaks to her more softly than everyone else, always leans in a bit, like he's drawn to her like a magnet. And her eyes are always bright and fond when she's speaking to him; she puts her entire focus on him, and it makes him feel fluttery and happy. They're busy people, with little privacy or alone time, so they're not adverse to PDA. He'll steal kisses from her whenever he's able, and she is more than willing to oblige in return. <3

They're very devoted to each other, never really left the honeymoon phase (constant danger and stress make it easier to forgive small things and just focus on the good times together) but they are open to the occasional threesome if they have a mutual crush. Kim is straight, but Blerple is bisexual, and they lowkey have a shared type: handsome, witty, and just a little stupid. Flynn Fairwind? Yeah, they bagged that. And then consequently helped him and Matthias Shaw get together.

They love playing matchmaker. They're both nosy as hell, and with Blerple's rogueish abilities and Kim's enthusiasm, they've been known to snoop in other people's love lives more than once, especially their friends. Blerple will always deny his interest, peg it on Kim, but he's just as curious by nature as she is. Thankfully they share a decent sense of judgment, or else the two of them would be in very high need of a babysitter to keep them out of trouble.

They're just. Two incredible individuals who found each other and changed the world together. They're heroes to many, prominent figures in Azeroth, and the picture of a devoted wife and husband. There's so much love between them!!! While they'd both be open to being parents as well, it's not really in the cards, which makes them a little sad. The fel corruption Kim has dealt with has made her all but infertile, and it's not really reversible. They'd be open to adoption, but really their lives are almost too busy to really consider it anyways, and besides, as co-leaders of the Brotherhood of the Stag, they're more or less mom and dad to more than a handful of enthusiastic adventurers, and are certainly the mom and dad of their friend group. They find satisfaction there, and in occasionally mentoring Blerple's young cousin/niece Aeroka, who is a budding member of the Kirin Tor.

They have friends all over Azeroth, both Alliance and Horde side, and they have a lovely little cottage in the Jade Forest in Pandaria that they saved up together for, which is maintained regularly by a friend of theirs. They intend to retire there one day, and in the rare event they can manage a vacation, they're usually found there, snuggled up and relaxing and taking time to love each other. <3

I could go on forever about these two so if you have any questions please send them 🙏🙏🙏

[cloudsoffire]

when i was younger i really liked this light novel series. i had each volume, the manga, and the anime on blu-ray. i was really into it. ocs, fanfiction about those ocs, i wanted to animate the fanfiction even though to this day my only experience with animation was flipnote. but i drew my ocs a lot. never once did i draw or write about the actual characters i don't think but y'know.

so the story is set in a kinda post-apocalyptic world where there's a virus that turns living creatures into monsters so there's basically a monster for each type of animal. certain areas are mostly safe because they're walled off with big monoliths made of a metal that the monsters are weak to.

the most interesting part of the story was that there were children, girls because of something to do do with the virus inhibiting something or other, born with the infection who had red eyes and superpowers. but the more they use their powers, the faster the infection speeds up, and if they pass 50% they turn into the monsters. they're treated horribly by society and don't even have human rights. they're often made to pair up with civil security officers (their promoters) to fight the monsters (gastrea) that wander into the city.

now you might already be seeing some issue, but i didn't. i was like "wow, a story about downtrodden children who just want to be kids but they're dragged into a war that isn't even theirs and there's cool and unique rules!"

i was so in denial that even when faced with a message in the afterword in either the novels or manga (i can't find it), someone (i think the mangaka) thanked the author for creating a "loli paradise." and like that phrase alone is so gross right? but anyway i remember looking at it, probably making a face, and thinking, "what? you totally and fully misunderstood the source material."

but as i got older and less into it, it got harder to brush off passages like the one specifically drawing attention to two of the (did i mention they're 11) girls underwear beneath the skirts of costumes they were wearing as weird but everything else is cool! so like, i can ignore this bit, right?

well here's the conclusion i reached. anything cool in these books is completely incidental, because the author just wanted to write about little girls.

quite the step, you say? hardly. the main character isn't even a cursed child himself, he's a cyborg. like 16 iirc. and people misunderstanding his relationship with various cursed children is a running joke. i think his partner even has a crush on him? i don't remember the finer details.

i hate to bring up my old fanfiction but i'm gonna use it to do a few comparisons.

in my story, the pov character was an initiator who got paired with a promoter who's on his like 5th initiator or something. he's an asshole and basically the first thing he does as her partner is let her go off on her own. she immediately latches onto him and does everything he says because she's an amnesiac and he's her one tie. not once is she sexualized. one of the first things she does is fall in a sink and when she recieves an id card she rubs it against her face because it's warm. she's 11.

meanwhile, over in the actual story, the main character is a 16 year old boy who's constantly surrounded by preteens and often put into compromising positions with them so someone can stumble in and misunderstand the situation. in the first volume of the manga, his initiator literally calls herself his fiancé, kisses him, and then, you guessed it...

anyway this is getting long so if anyone wants to buy all 7 light novel volume, all 4 manga volumes, and the blu-ray of the anime of black bullet, hmu.

[ms-scarletwings]

And it’s NOT even an obsession with aliens specifically… it’s an obsession with the unknown and yet to be explored. Absent of Zim forcing his attention and top priority towards the perpetual invasion, he doesn’t really have a particular worm for extraterrestrials burrowing through his head. He’s jumping at any cryptic lead that enters his field of view in his spare time. He’s scrutinizing for potential yetis/bigfeets, he’s raising the dead, and he’s probably going around poking vampiric beehives and god only knows what other antics a 12 year old with that kind of plot armor can get around to. He’s just as enthusiastic and curious to “figure out” arcane spells and futuristic unearthly tech alike. In a simulation of all his dreams come true he segwayed right through his false victory over Zim and onto the next hunt for ghosts, and then the likes of Nessie’s kin.

Of course space would be absolutely wondrous to him. It’s one of the last true frontiers standing before mankind, and what is left to be learned about it completely dwarfs, no, transcends the comparative speck of work we’ve accomplished so far. I’d make a fair wager that he feels the same about the oceans and the worlds beneath worlds, and in between.

The juxtaposition between his life’s passion and Professor Membrane’s is so ironic it actually almost hurts.

And I’ve seen it that way for a very long time, because invader Zim is a crazyass world full of crazyass things that are real as a heart attack. This isn’t real life where people actually are likely in need of urgent medical treatment if they spend several years screaming about a school classmate being an interloper from the stars or a Sasquatch using their power tools. Dib actually does know what he’s talking about to at least a point further than many other believers and investigators within the show. Nothing about his problem with dad is “science vs pseudoscience” like it would be if they existed in a grounded and consistent universe.

To Dib, this is ALL correctly perceived as just more science. Supernatural would honestly be a misnomer for his special interest if you think about it. How can something be above nature, and also occur naturally? Magic and monsters are parts of the same world, and the fact that they break the known rules only means to Dib that there’s more complexity to the rules he needs to keep learning. He’s not even “bad” at the conventional research his father expects of him, he’s a prodigy study to the point that it bores him to tears.

Because why would he want to keep himself restrained to things already tried and known when there’s so much more out there? He doesn’t want the maximum potential of his achievements to be dragging his feet down a path paved to him by those before, least of all probably his father.

You wanna hear a hot take about where his disagreement with the professor actually stems from??

Dib Membrane is the most scientifically-minded character in Invader Zim.

Literally no one else so consistently represents that inquirious faucet of the human condition. For better or worse Dib has to be scratching an itch to keep turning over every odd stone off the beaten road and to pursue that which he doesn’t understand- All for no other ultimate reason than to know, record, and tell. Contrast that with the most renowned scientist of the human race: a man of authoritative knowledge and very little compromise with the unknowns, as in the TRUE unknowns. I’m not saying Professor membrane doesn’t have intellectual curiosity, far from it, but it’s not actually the main driver behind his research. And that is neither an insult to his work because his main priority is actually extremely utilitarian and helpful to society. The world literally needs a man like him to function, and his entire character represents what most laymen think an ideal “scientist” is, a super smarts guy who knows everything and builds the world we live in. In his position, it’s probably very hard not to develop some arrogance regarding what he thinks he’s learned about the universe.

Dib’s hobby is where you really watch the curiosity in Membrane comes to blows with the stereotype he was made in the image of. Earlier on you believe the problem is that he’s just an evidence based rationalist who needed proof of Dib’s claims.

Except we have seen this hope completely shattered from about the Florpus movie and onward. Professor membrane is smart, but he is not inherently that much more rational than most humans. There is the established science, and there are unquestionable, concrete rules about the universe he just cannot compromise on because he has not considered their exceptions possible. He roughly said it himself once that aliens probably do exist, but not the technology that could bring them face to face with him. that’s the exact premise in his head that stopped him from engaging with the Irken Spittlerunner sitting in his garage. Based on the laws he spent his entire life utilizing in his work, it shouldn’t exist. It can’t exist. But his son is a very imaginative and crafty kid. Him building something like that as a cry for attention is possible under the known laws of reality, so there’s the working conclusion for the spaceship. All of membrane’s denial throughout the movie becomes a lot less absurd and a lot more predictable when you realize this is just how his internal logic tree works. A bug-eyed alien using a tiny purple moose to spaghettify the entire planet through a multi-dimensional portal??? NOT👏SCIENTIFICALLY👏POSSIBLE. That’s an absolutely ludicrous proposal!

Some kind of hallucinogenic psychosis? Well, that’s happened to people before, the human mind is a very flawed machine, after all. What are you gonna do, right? Bet it’s just a remarkably vivid dream. And that’s a bummer because it really raises the bar and the possible futility of what Dib is trying to accomplish. Even if he switched gears off of the alien thing and made a breakthrough somewhere else, it is always going to be the same struggle with his father, because what Dib loves to study is exclusively things that make everything we know about the world no longer make sense- Things that elude traditional means of research and things that require a humility that his society has long abandoned to be known. Things that you will never see if you don’t have the modesty to accept that you haven’t reached the end of history and exploration. Professor Membrane is without reservation, a brilliant mind, and a force of ultimate good in the world. He’s the colloquial understanding of science, the cemented, the accepted, the undefeatable, and the merciless enemy to blind faith.

And yet, Dib Membrane better represents the actual history and theory of the scientific pursuit- one that was fueled by curiosity and awe at the world, one that has persisted despite all sabotage and violence that tried to hold it back, one that never grew complacent, one that made power upset countless times over, one that had to constantly adapt, and one that doesn’t dismiss or flee its challengers because it sprints headfirst into them.

TL/DR: I eternally fucking love the characterization in this series; Taking my hat off in sorrow for Dib because so much of the family rift here is that the professor has raised a superior successor to Membrane Labs, even if he’s stubbornly coping too hard to appreciate that now.

You know, the movie doesn’t explicitly draw attention to it, but I just love Dib’s wonder-filled big-eyed look when Zim pulls out his star map hologram. 

It connects very well with the movie’s opening

And even as far back as the ending of ‘Tak, the Hideous New Girl’

That Dib’s obsession with aliens is, fundamentally, born of a true sense of excitement and wonder of the mysteries of outer space. 

[filipinoizukuu]

hello mr simp do you have any thoughts on the leeks 👀

FIRST OF ALL. THEY CAME SO FUCKING EARLY??? BRO I WAS ASLEEP

SECOND OF ALL

holy SHIT YALL

Okay, it's no secret that I'm an All Might stan. I LOVE All Might. Very very much. Not just as a simp, but genuinely, I enjoy his character SO MUCH.

--And unlike what some people may think, I'm not totally blind to his flaws. I know he sucks as a mentor and that he's done way more harm to Deku than good. He's.... not perfect. in every sense of the word. The whole point of AM's character is that he is a DEEPLY FLAWED individual— but at the end of the day, still good.

This new chapter gave me SOOO many new feelings. I'm not gonna lie to y'all and say I was a Stain apologist beforehand because I wasn't. I disliked Stain to a certain degree, but I also knew he was morally grey enough that I was able to still quite appreciate him as a character. This chapter was about EVERYTHING to me because I honestly did NOT expect Hori to go in this direction and for things to happen the way they did. It was too good to be true! Too fanfic-y! The disbelief I felt when I read what happened was on par with when Bakugou and Deku had that apology and kinda-hug in the rain!

But this disbelief is not because it was a bad thing.

I think the writing in Chapter 326 is phenomenal. The moment that All Might was really beginning to lose hope in not just himself as a hero, but himself as a PERSON... we finally hear the opinion of someone who would abso-fucking-LUTELY make or break the last of his spirit.

Stain is, as much as his views are pretty agreeable and his label is that of a vigilante, still a pretty shitty guy. He's tried to kill literal kids who got in his way, even if said kids made pretty dumb decisions. AM hearing what he has to say is absolutely mind-boggling to him because he knows all of that. He knows Stain is a shitty person and that his worldview is perhaps terribly skewed. He knows Stain has spent a hot minute frying his brains down in Tartarus and isn't good at making judgment calls. Knows that for all intents and purposes, Stain's opinions are not to be trusted.

But the thing is... Toshinori also knows that Stain, regardless of the soundness of his mind, is telling the truth.

Regardless of how fucked-in-the-head Stain is, we as readers are able to acknowledge that he isn't blinded by hero worship. Sure, he's bitter, cynical, and quite the absolutist--but Stain is still clear-headed enough to be able to see AM's flaws for what they are and accept them, ultimately proving to Toshinori that the power of All Might was never his own but rather the legacy that he inspired.

The society MHA takes place in is flawed. We all know this. Heroes, as a concept, had been corrupted into being purely about good and evil. Purely winning fights for money or fame or the abstract concept of victory (coughs Endeavor and the no.1 spot coughs), making heroism as we know it about flashiness and power instead of mercy and the desire to help others.

All Might symbolizes the ideal version of the Hero Society. He represents doing the best you can. Being a hero until you reach your limits, and then going even past that. He symbolizes pure intention and the desire to be a hero not for material gains but because of the pure want to make society a better and safer place. Stain refers to Kamino Ward and the statue as a "holy land" because he believes that through and through, AM's only had the purest of intentions and morals. To him, Toshinori was like a deity that had no fault in making society what it was in the present because that accountability fell on the generations of heroes that failed to fulfill his legacy.

The point being, Stain understood that All Might was fundamentally not about 'being there' for everyone 24/7, but rather the message his presence had sent.

All Might's monologue at the beginning of the chapter essentially boiled down to the ideas that:

A. He regrets not being there properly for Deku

B. His image was a delusion that ultimately led to the downfall of hero society.

To break this down, his problem with Deku is his inability to be a competent mentor. It shows that he has led him down dangerous and horrible paths (Deku's stubbornness to do things by himself and his 'dark' arc post-war), and is unable to bring him back into the light even if he tries. It was only when Class 1-A had intervened that they were able to get Deku to rest and let people tag along, after all, which is why Toshinori was far too embarrassed to follow him into UA's walls even after everyone had come out with umbrellas.

Stain disproves this in two ways.

First, he says that it was never about All Might's ability to actually be there for people. The whole point of what inspired Deku to be the inherently good-hearted "true hero" he is today is because of the values that AM's brand had instilled in him as a child. AM's biggest positive impacts came from behind the screen where he was used as the proof that true heroes can and do exist. Deku does want to be exactly like All Might, yes, which is why we see Toshinori leading him down the same path that he walked--but the underlying message of this is that the very first thing All Might gave him even before OfA was the courage to help fix society.

I do believe Deku is an innately compassionate person. Most people in the series are. However, what makes All Might's smile so uniquely impactful to what it did to Hero Society is the way it gave people courage to help people. Less hesitation. Less bystander syndromes. The ability to move without thinking. Because you can feel the want to help a person, but the courage to be nosey and actually do it? That's portrayed as something AM's image teaches people.

The second way he disproves AM's insecurity of dragging Deku down is that he makes it clear that this pain is somewhat of a necessity in reforming society. He says, interestingly enough, that this is but the 'middle process' in reforming society. This spills over to how he addresses Problem B, but what Stain is essentially saying here is that this sort of brutality and isolation that Izuku faces is impermanent. A phase. It implies that even if Deku is struggling and Toshinori is unable to help him, it is something that needs to happen before they re-realize the ideal heroes All Might's image is meant to create.

The second problem in regards to how All Might feels about current society (how it's collapsing because of him, etc. etc.) is more interestingly addressed. There are many things that Stain says--like how Toshinori doesn't need to actually be the one to fix society with his bare hands. The current society is not his fault because of the fact that it is not finished developing. I'm not sure if I can go so far as to say that Stain means this in the sense of the Scorched Earth method of tearing everything down to build it back up better-- but I can say that Stain still has faith in society to rebuild after this period of chaos.

This rebuilding starts with the old generation of heroes correcting what they messed up (i.e. Endeavor v Dabi) and more importantly, paving the way for a better generation of heroes that was inspired by All Might's image. Heroes that are led by people like Deku, who is defined by his proclivity to help without thinking. The violent deconstruction of society is about exposing society to the raw truth of All Might's image that not everybody can be as strong as him-- which is why we have to take care of each other.

When the lady comes in to remove the sign and start cleaning the statue, it's symbolic. It's a clear metaphor that the past few chapters are the turning point for society as a whole, and how people are starting to remember what real heroism is. From the distrust that was seeded in society ever since LoV had surfaced, we are seeing that trust being returned TEN-FOLD now that people can see not only the mask of a hero's smile, but also the person underneath.

I think it's some really neat symbolism here too about how Deku, who's metal mouth guard was literally all about representing All Might's smile, is shed.

This is hero society dropping their masks. Letting people see them for as they are. Toshinori revisiting the statue in this form makes all the more impact because he shed his mask ages ago during the Kamino Bust, so this is him coming face to face with the image he's created and seeing the differences between them, and how his image continues to live on even after he's almost completely Quirkless. The lady cleaning the All Might statue shows off the fact that things can be repaired again--that society can be clean (hehe stain pun) again.

It's interesting to me here how Stain offers the information from Tartarus.

He doesn't care anymore about his life. It's evident. He disagrees with what the LoV is doing, but believes enough in Deku to think that it's time for him to retire the mantle of 'Stain'. Unless this is another test, it's very odd for me to hear that Stain is offering a blade and his life to someone he isn't even sure is All Might.

But the impact of this action reads loud and clear.

This is Stain taking pity on All Might. This is him realizing that All Might too is a person behind the hero. That Toshinori Yagi is incapable of doing anything past the image he had already created. By offering that knife and information on Tartarus, Stain is giving control back to Toshinori. He is giving AM the chance to do something big again to help society's reconstruction. To be a part of the revolution that he so badly deserves to see. That knife is essentially an exit ticket from the sidelines, and one last chance for All Might to be able to see what his image has done for people.

I personally think that the main reason Stain is willing to die then and there by Toshinori's hand, despite not being sure that he is All Might to begin with, is because of the final impact it creates that it isn't about Toshinori Yagi's true power as a person, but the image of All Might. It is because he looks like the symbol of peace, that Stain (the literal HERO KILLER) feels comfortable laying his life in his hands and giving away valuable information.

If that isn't a great testament to the power of AM's image, I don't know WHAT is.

I guess all I have to say is I absolutely love what Stain did in this chapter. Everything felt so incredibly symbolic and emotional and as someone who absolutely ADORES All Might and what he stands for in the story, this felt like a cool balm after seeing Deku tragically reject his bento box a good few chapters ago. I have a few more opinions about symbolism, and how I think Deku's generation of heroes is going to stray from the old gen, but I think that's a discussion for another time.

Thanks for reading 'til the end!

[husbandohunter]

Your Stardew Impact has given me a serious brainrot and I couldn’t sleep on it so here

Imagine the boys getting Isekai to Stardew and meeting their (soon-to-be) s/o a.k.a the farmer who found them in the mines and dragged them out.

It’s basically the same as the original but the reader lives in Stardew universe from the beginning.

The Outlanders who trespassed the Stars [Stardew Valley + Genshin Impact]

Synopsis: You were a simple farmer who lived a simple life before crossing paths with these outlanders. A tale of greetings and farewells tells a story that loving someone was like looking at the stars in the sky; a sense of warmth amidst darkness, where the dots connect no matter what distance it was. But just like stars, they were meant to be unobtainable.

(Basically what happens if the boys get Isekai'd)

Genre: fluff, angst (faceapalm didn't mean to)

Characters: Childe, Xiao, Zhongli

(A/n): Hi anon, haha I didn't think the Stardew Impact series would be this enjoyable. Allow me to serve your brainrot. But just for future references there is a character limit! Also it long, a pro tip to use ctrl+F and type in the name :>

======================

~Childe's Story~

The day you met Childe was perhaps during the most fortunate yet unfortunate hour of your life.

Winter comes by, your fields were left dry, what else was there to do other than mining? You were aiming to build a new Barnhouse before summer comes, fishing only made average income thus you decided to take your pickaxe and hope to run into some diamonds, gold or even better: prismatic shards. However, expensive items could only be found in the deepest parts of the mountains, where dangerous monsters lurk by.

When peeking over the abandoned minecart you so carefully shielded yourself with, you began contemplating whether you've just dug yourself a grave instead. The whole area became infested, you weren't in the best condition and on top of all that, you were out of food.

You decided to make a run for it, with the treasures and goodies at hand, you couldn't give up. However, things only got worse when purple mist began taking over your vision, signaling a lava bat wave drawing nigh. It was thanks to your greed that you ended in such a predicament but it was also your greed that brought you to him.

"W-Woah!!"

You tripped with your toe pointing downwards into a pile of wooden crates. The bats swarmed in shortly after, daunting around the area above but you couldn't afford to look. Your face was down to the ground and you could only rely on your ears regarding their whereabouts. As if Yoba heard your prayers, the lava bats could not seem to find you, confusing them to think you've escaped. And so, they flew away.

"I'm never doing that again," The sudden impact was excruciating, you were sure that your lip bled due to biting too hard. At least the floor felt somewhat soft, cotton-like and warm enough to be comforting. Yet, for some reason it was also a little…bony?

"…Mn…."

Your body jerks up like a springboard when you felt something shifting. A man, no older than his twenties, no older than you, lays sprawled out under your form. He was beginning to stir and you panicked when a pair of blue cerulean eyes pointed into your seemingly shocked ones within the close parameter.

Too close.

The man gives a cheerfully wry chuckle, you could practically feel his breath almost, "Well this is quite unexpected, didn't think I'd end up in this position," he jests, soon his expression began to tighten into a grimace, "Mind getting off me though? With all due respect miss, you're a little-…heavy."

You scrambled to the side while still kneeling, "What the hell, who are you?!"

"Hm," The man didn't answer, instead he pushed himself upright and turned his attention to examine the surroundings, "Where are we?" He paused when he noticed how the ceiling was made of rocks, "Wait, is this a cave?"

"Ninety two floors deep and surrounded by monsters," you sighed in frustration while rubbing your head with your palm, "Seriously, whoever you are you shouldn't be here, especially if you're not even carrying the necessary supplies."

"Hey, I just got here. I'm just as confused as you," he puts his hands up in a defensive gesture, "But how strange," he mutters to himself, lowering his arms ever so slightly before pinching his chin in deep thought, "I swear it was the right portal…or maybe it was the other one? Hmmm, could it be the effect of the hidden seal?"

I have so many questions. You sweatdropped nervously. Here you were, hours spent to get to the deepest parts of the earth and looking like a cavewoman while his clothes were practically untouched, nor did they seem to be a recognizable fashion. You've seen many odd events within Stardew Valley but not to this extent, "Alright you know what, let's forget about it for now. We need to get out of here before those lava bats come back for us again. Otherwise we're toast," you gestured to the lava pool, "Literally."

He gave another one of his gleeful smiles, you wondered if he was afraid at all, "Sounds like a solid plan to me. Judging by the equipment you're wearing, you seem to have been here for a while. You know your way around?"

Figures that he doesn't know, you thought, "I'll lead."

"Glad we're on the same page. Though, we've only just met and yet you're still willing to help a stranger like me," he mentions in an off-handed manner, perhaps he wasn't used to generosity ever since being recruited as a harbinger, "But not that I'm complaining. You have my thanks, comrade."

"(Y/n)," you tell him, "That's my name. I'm a farmer that resides in this town."

"I see. A town it is then," he inquires, "Call me Childe, as where I'm from, not sure how to answer that anymore."

"What do you-"

But before you were able to question him further, a hoard of lava crabs were spotted crawling it's way towards where Childe sat. He shot you a confused look and turned to the direction, amusement sparks in his eyes,

"Lava crabs? You've got to be kidding me," your arms have already grown tired long ago, at this rate, you figured it may be best to pay a visit to Harvey's doctor office and check up for any muscle strains that have occured during the process. You most likely have considered how heavy your items felt now. Partaking in another battle would only make it worse.

"Ah an opponent, to think this place wouldn't have a set of new monsters to fight. I was growing tired of beating up hilichurls all the time."

His casual reaction caused you to scrunch up your nose in disbelief, "We're being ganged up on and your first response was that???"

Childe paid no mind, instead he propelled himself back to his feet using his trained reflexes and swaggered towards the crowd, "Relax girlie," Stopping just after a few steps, he turns his head ajar over his shoulder with a floppy smirk spreading his lips, "I've got this."

You held in your breath, wondering if you could trust this man. For now all you could do was sit back and hopefully regain some of your strength while observing by the stacks of crates that were abandoned years ago. The lava crabs formed a straight line in front of him, they were smart creatures, cornering their prey in a very well strategized form so that trespassing was out of the question. Childe wasn't intimidated in the slightest, he merely looked down at them with hooded eyes, flexing his fingers for preparation.

"Lava crab…in other words you're of the pyro element," the harbinger holds out his hand in front of him, trying to cultivate the shape of his bow, "A shame. This fight would end much shorter than I anticipated."

However, when he expected his element to manifest, nothing came out. Childe was left dumbfounded.

"Don't just stand there," you screeched, "Do something!!!"

"Wait," he halts you and tries to summon his bow again. Once, twice, as the crabs grew closer still there was nothing, "My powers…they're gone?!"

"Take this," left without a choice, you pushed yourself towards him and shoved Neptune's glaive into his grasp. He examines it with curiosity, but you knew this was also your own well-being you were entrusting him, "It's really easy to use, just-"

When a crab leapt forward, you ran back to create some manageable space for Childe to move in. He delivers a powerful slice using one arm, hitting the crab's weak spot while tossing it toward the side until a dent was formed in the wall. Your mouth parts, fast, he was fast, you didn't even have the time to blink. It was as if he knew the glaive more than you did. Though, the assumption wasn't that far from the truth. Childe was well adept with swordsmanship as he was an expert with many other melee weapons. Which is precisely the reason why he chose the bow as his main, a ranged device, the challenge to keep him on his toes. Just like he was now.

"He wasn't lying when he said he could fight," you watched in mesmerization, each single blow he delivered deemed equivalent to three hits on your part. Childe was both powerful and swift. He was formidable. The way he effortlessly deflected his opponents despite not having an enchantment ring made you forget how much of an idiot he was earlier before. Soon, the lava crabs began to lessen, leaving what remained of their dusted corpse while some retreated back into the depths of the cave.

"Not bad, it was kind of fun!" Childe laughs exasperatedly, glancing at his blue reflection upon the marred blade, "It's been a while since I last used a sword, and still haven't gone rusty either," he hands you the hilt, "Thanks for letting me use it by the way. You seriously got yourself a sick weapon."

"Keep using it for now, I think I'm a little too worn out to handle it," you say regretfully and pointed your nose towards the ceiling, "The mist hasn't disappeared so there's probably gonna be more monsters we'll encounter soon."

Childe looks up as well, "Huh I was wondering what that meant."

"By the way I've never seen anyone fight like that. Exactly what kind of place are you from?" You finally ask, "You somehow ended up in a cave, without anything to defend yourself with and it's not like you know your way out either. Are you...from another world?"

"Huh didn't think you'd draw that conclusion so quick," he comments jokingly, "Guess there's no reason to hide it anymore. Indeed I am from another world, at least, that's what I can tell so far. I've never encountered these types of monsters either."

You couldn't help but be taken aback by his honesty, "That was strangely easier than I thought...."

After escaping the cave, you introduced Childe to the wizard who lived in Cindersap forest, M. Rasmodius. He was extremely intrigued by the concept of an outlander and seemed happy to be of assistance. Since helping others was the culture of Pelican Town, you commissioned Robin to build a small cabin for him to live in temporarily. In return, Childe must accompany you back to the caves and make up for your losses. It was a mutual benefit since he had the opportunity to fight as well.

Childe befriended the townsfolk rather easily. On friday nights where everyone goes to the Saloon to enjoy their time, he would be found in the other room playing pool with the gang (Sam, Abigail and Sebastian)-- you as well when he managed to drag you along with him.

Crashes at your place when you were busy with the farm. You can bet that he would pop up suddenly midday through your window, “Can you use the door like a normal person???” But despite how much you get irritated by this habit, all bygones are bygones the moment he starts a conversation.

He sticks around as you carry your hay batches, sharing his stories. How the organization he worked in was a powerful militaristic force that had authority over many countries. But you didn't see him as a brute since he only joined for the sake of his parents, for the sake of his siblings and their dreams.

You thought of your grandfather who also once told you to pursue your dreams: live a peaceful life away from urban society. However, as long as the harbinger was with you, there wasn't much option for 'peace'.

"Tell me again why you dragged me out here? You know thatI still have a lot of work to finish back in the farm," you trekked your feet through the thick icy sheets with one hand clutching the zipper near your collarbone. It was incredibly windy in Cindersap forest and Childe happened to have convinced you to leave the comfort of your home for 'a surprise favour'. He purposely made a vague statement to draw in your curiosity but if you had refused-- well, that would have led to constant nagging on his part.

"You'll see," is what he said, it was what he told you through this whole ordeal. He lifted his chin to feel the frosty air against his face, "There's this one activity I wanted to try out. Back in Snezhnaya, I used to bring my brother to go skating out on the lakes. It's deadly freezing there so the ice is pretty thick to work on. Haven't done any of that since I joined the Fatui."

You shot him a deadpan glare, "That's why you brought me out here? Why didn't you just go by yourself?"

"Now that's cold (Y/n),” you rolled your eyes at the pun, “Can't you loosen up instead of throwing yourself in a pile of work all day?"

"It's not that I don't want to...I'm just very busy with the farm since it's the last day of the month. At least I want to do as much as I can before Spring comes."

"Haha you're right but you only live once y'know?" Childe noted happily despite your protest, "And like I said before, seize the opportunity when you see it. You never know when it will be your last."

You cocked your head to the side, "What do you mean?"

"Now let's get started shall we?" As you both reach the edge of the frozen lake, Childe takes a step forward ahead of you, "Have you ever gone ice skating before?"

"Yeah but..." You glanced at the glassy surface with skepticism, suddenly struck by hesitance. The thought of drowning made you retreat your steps right away, "I don't know Childe, it doesn't seem that safe."

"That's true if you're not careful enough," he pointed out, "Luckily you have me to help you with that."

"How does that work?"

He placed one foot onto the hardened lake and parts his mouth into a grin, "Watch."

In contrast to your cautious personality, Childe was considered to be more of a wildcard if anything. He loved adventure, just like you except his side often included bloodshed and the thrill that danger carries. You weren't sure if it was worth putting up with his antics or entertaining his idea of skating on thin ice, but you complied regardless. He had a way of delivering his words through that cheery voice you couldn't deny.

Prior to meeting him, life was boring. The corporate world was boring. You moved into your grandfather's farm in order to search for some form of fulfillment that Zuzu city couldn't give and you thought you did now that you had your very own farm, but slowly you began to pile more responsibilities than you could even count.

Everything you did, you did alone.

If it weren't for Childe, you wouldn't have learned the art of surfing on ocean waters. You never would have known the taste of mixing three different ice-cream flavours together despite what strange names they all had. Or what it felt like to mingle with the townspeople rather than mingling for the sake of business. Suddenly, everything became...fun.

Childe wanted to go far and wide. He was always running, so far ahead, somewhere beyond the stars as he could conquer the world to the point you might no longer reach him.

No longer reach him, huh. Curling your fingers into your palm, you renewed your courage and took a step onto the ice.

At the sound of boots tapping behind him, Childe spins around to see you wobble in your stance, nearly tipping over. He slid across to where you were and grasped your arm before you fell.

"Gotcha."

"Thanks," You sighed in relief, "Jeez, this is harder than I thought."

"Guess this is your first time then," he commented with a bit of jest, "Don't stress yourself over it too much, you'll be okay. I got you."

He carefully led you to the center, staying close in case you were to fall sideways again. You awkwardly tried to keep your legs straight, balancing on your own yet the fact that there was still water underneath struck fear into your nerve. It caused you to tremble and eventually skittered backwards.

"Haha ice skating isn't your forte isn't it?"

"I'm just getting started!"

He takes your hand in his before you could even protest, it was one of his many aspects that you found endearing-- the fact his impulse stems from genuine intentions, feelings, not giving them a second thought. The two of you glide using the soles of your shoes, he speeds up ever so slightly and the adrenaline begins to increase until there comes a rush of excitement, freedom. The stress you once had already forgotten once taking flight upon the ice.

"Look Childe! I'm actually doing it!" You couldn't help mentioning with a bit of youthful playfulness in your voice, "It's so smooth and fast! Almost like I'm flying!"

He smiles quietly from a distance, “See? I told you that you'll be fine.”

It was clear to many that the two of you were much closer than what meets the eye.

Childe began to notice the change in your aura. You were happier and much more soulful. Before you were always on the edge, cautious in contrast to his sanguine approach, he couldn't help but be caught off guard whenever you teased him. Or the sudden honesty that causes him to be flustered. By your side, he was no longer a Fatui Harbinger rather more of a puppy, adorable almost.

But when he saw that the reason you changed was because of him, it brought fear into his bones. Why? How did things get to this point? You were lost in a wonderland, ignorant to the blossom that had sprung inside of your chest.

Maybe it was better to be ignorant. Just live in the moment while it can still last.

"You're leaving?"

Standing at the gateway between the mountain cliffside and the starry sky, you call out to the man you've known in a way that carries more than what words could say. Because he left a mark in your years that could never be erased and here he was, trying to erase his existence completely.

Childe lets out a bitter chuckle, he didn't dare to face you, "I didn't expect you to catch up so quickly. You're quick-witted, comrade."

"It's (Y/n)," you corrected, trying to steady your voice so that he couldn't tell the expression you were making, "Why didn't you say anything? What makes you think that I'll just stay silent and let you go on your own way? This isn't a joke Childe! Don't act as if none of it matters to you because it sure as hell did to me."

His lips that held his usual smirk flattens into a straight line, "Even if I did, would it make a difference?"

The world stills. You knew the answer, he knew the answer, you just refused to admit it. One by one, the stars begin to collect themselves until a bridge was formed in front of him, on another day he would be enjoying the scenery alongside you. But today they would be for you alone to witness. The man who you spent your time with had slowly, regretfully, inevitably became a stranger. He was right. It wouldn't make a difference. You were already aware since the day you met him that he belonged to another world and you willingly offered to help him find a way home.

"You know, you could come with me."

Your eyes jolt open. His voice was so free of care. As if he was commenting on something so minor on a casual Sunday afternoon while accompanying you to the beach. But when you came face to face with the harbinger, his expression lackluster, you knew that he meant every word.

"Just you and me, we can travel across the world to our heart's content. I always thought you were an adventurer just like me and you know what, the farm life just doesn't suit you," Childe slowly extends his hand as an offer, for you it was a temptation, "So what do you think? Care to join me?

Your lip quivers. What he said sounded like a sweet dream that you so desperately wanted to take a bite out of. But even so, you thought about the townsfolk, your farm, your grandfather. Their images flashed in as if holding you back, chaining you to the ground, "I can't."

The answer pained you more than it did to him.

"Figures, this is your home after all," he huffs out, " Now do you understand? I can't leave my home either. If I did, heh, I think my siblings would despise me until the very end and I just don't want that. So no hard feelings, okay?"

You didn't reply.

"Don't worry. I won't pressure you if you don't want to," Childe turns back to the bridge, it was almost time, "Do what you have to do (Y/n), hate me if it makes you feel any better. You can even forget about me," he paused, renewing his resolve, "But I know I won't."

"Childe-"

You ran to grab his scarf only to have it ghost through your hands. He was relieved that he couldn't hear your voice, as he returned to Teyvat, Childe wonders what kind of expression did you have before he left? He'll never know.

---

~Xiao's Story~

The day you met Xiao...well, you weren't in the best of the best positions.

This was probably your sixth attempt trying to make it through all levels of the cave and reach the last floor. The quest had been sitting in your drawer for months.

Of course you didn't expect things to be easy, the fortune teller channel you watched every morning had yet to inform you with any good fortune and you would often bump into obstacles that would halt your progress.

But to be fair, sometimes the colourful ore would attract your attention and before you knew it, it was time to go.

So close yet so far. You dragged your feet tiredly against the ground. What time was it? Who knows. Judging by your state, you assumed it had already struck past 12 a.m.

However, today luck seems to have taken pity on you, just...slightly.

You puffed air into your cupped hands for the nth time, huddling deeper into the touch of your coat while trudging into the cave's cold climate. A little longer, any time soon, you kept telling yourself over and over but as if time was frozen, the wait felt like an eternity. Ah how much you wish to be in the comfort of your soft, fluffy bed right now. Though, merely visualizing the image only reminded how achingly freezing it was so you decided it was best to spare yourself from the details.

"I can't do this anymore..." leaning your head against the ice covered cavern, you whimpered, "I should have stayed home."

As you were about to shut your eyelids, something flashed by your peripheral vision. You darted towards the direction it came from, the light was a bright green hue against blue, could it be, "Warmth!"

It seems you jumped to conclusions too quickly. With impatience, you swung around the corner, expecting to find a heat source, only to meet something much more horrifying.

"KYAH!"

They stared straight into your eyes, those demonic eyes tainted by black and fangs that stuck out of the mouth like tusks on an elephant.

However, when the light evaporated you were able to have a better sense of sight, slowly revealing the monster's true form and the body of a human boy. He fell onto his back with a thud and you used this chance to calm yourself from the frightful encounter.

"He's...unconscious?"

You meekly crawled to where he lay and examined closely. Aside from the mask, there were various distinct features that stood out in his attire, his tattoo being one of them, imprinted in what looked like an eagle. You then realized how unsuitable his clothes were in this current situation. At least there were no injuries so far. But was that a good thing? This man practically came out of thin air as if some sorcery had been committed. Witches never left a good impression ever since they cursed your chicken coop. You were hesitant whether to help a stranger who could potentially be one of them or a creation they cultivated. What other explanation could there be?

"I can't leave him here, it's too cold."

Your gaze suddenly falls upon his covered face. The design, although intimidating at first, upon closer look was very alluring in it’s own way. You haven't stumbled upon anything like what the merchants had to offer in Pelican Town and the mask almost looked too foreign. Was he from the east? Curiosity eventually takes over and you gingerly reach for the mask, sliding it off his face.

"Eh...?" You gasp, taken aback by his striking appearance. A part of it made you feel this was no ordinary boy but that didn't mean he should be abandoned in this environment. It would be immoral to let him die in a place like this.

Before you could even make a noise, his eyes bursted awake, grabbing your wrist in a harsh grip. He used his other hand to push against your shoulder until you were instantly pinned on your back with no opening to escape. You choked a sharp sound as you stared with wide eyes. The man was akin to a beast, he had the expression to match it, like the glaring sharp gaze of wolves that roam at the mountain cliffside near Zuzu city and the ferocity of the demonic mask he once wore. You were breath taken but in a more fearful way as he continued to grip onto you tighter with the possible intent to harm.

"Speak!” He demanded, “What have you done to my powers and where have you brought me?"

In Xiao’s case, he was thrown into another world under the circumstances of fighting against one of Liyue’s unknown beasts. He was on high alert, thinking the fight was still ongoing.

You may look human but you could still be a threat. Xiao is the type to act upon instinct in the moment when something feels out of place. Like the spear he wields, he was trained to behave like one: to strike, strike down his foes without hesitation. Don't leave an opening for them to take the advantage. Xiao is a weapon and violence was what he knew best. He couldn't afford to lower his guard even for a minute.

You could say he left a pretty strong first impression to the point you were paralyzed. As he looked at your face, petrified and tense, he wavered and began to reevaluate things. Large doe-like eyes stare into his feline ones. They didn't seem to hold any sort of malice, was it possible for you to be the one who cursed him?

"Eeeeeek! I-I have no idea what you're talking about, let me go let me go!" you cried, "Please don't hurt me!"

Perhaps he shouldn’t have jumped to conclusions.

Xiao feels your struggle and eventually gets off to give you some space. Your reaction was understandable, he was used to it anyways. Xiao scoffed to himself, why are mortals so weak? Their strength, if compared to the adepti, was separated by a large gap (Like it always should be). Xiao kept his gaze averted to the side as you rubbed your wrist, focusing his attention elsewhere. He glanced at the vastness of the cave in front of him.

Why was he sent here? For what reason did it serve? Ever since he sealed the contract with Rex Lapis, the guardian Yaksha had never entertained the thought of leaving his country nor did he act upon it; he was far too loyal to his god to do so. But here he was, against his own will yet free from his karmic binds, stripped of his divine powers in the return of endless questions about this new found mortal-like form.

What should I do now?

Choosing not to dwell in any longer, Xiao rises to his feet and proceeds to walk the other way.

"Ah u-uhm sir, where are you going?"

If the universe wanted to test him then he'll find his own answers.

"Wait! Please wait up!"

"Tch."

Although he intended to keep going, Xiao heard you running to his direction and slowed to a halt, some mortals surely do not know their boundaries, "Hmph there's nothing timid about you. Leave me be," he demands without turning around, "Don't forget what I'm capable of."

Stay away.

"I-I know that," you retaliate weakly. Just by hearing his tone made you want to melt away and become one with the ice. He was a scary man indeed, the same one who attacked you earlier. But even so, "That doesn't mean I want you dead! If you go that way, you might freeze to death. Aren't you cold? You don't even have a coat on."

"..." Upon the mention of his predicament, his senses started to kick in. As a yaksha, Xiao wasn't able to be affected by temperature but now he felt his hands beginning to sting, trembling from it’s impact. Ah, so this is what it feels like to be cold. Still Xiao was stubborn and continued to push you away, "What happens to me has nothing to do with you. Now leave, or else."

"I-I can't do that!"

Xiao clicks his tongue in frustration. How annoying. This is why he dislikes meddling with meddlesome humans. But quite frankly, he wasn't sure how to handle your type of forwardness since most tend to back away. And so, Xiao does what he usually does, he ignores you and continues walking, eventually you'll give up on him anyway. However he hears a loud thump and whips around to see your body laying in the snow. The hours of travelling in the cave have seemed to caught up that you inevitably collapsed from exhaustion.

Knitting his evergreen brows together, Xiao lets out an irritable sigh.

...

You wake up to find the sky above your head and your coat draped over your shoulders like a blanket. Dawn was slowly rising above the distance valley, you figured it was around 4a.m in the morning. Rubbing your eyes, you eventually noticed a figure sitting across, admiring the sunrise.

"Ah it's you!"

Xiao jolts ever so slightly, peeking over his bare shoulders until you could see the sun's light casted against his golden irises. Did he stay here while you were asleep? Then, that would also mean he was also the one who carried you all the way up from sixty floors below.

“You're awake,” he noted flatly, “If that's the case, then I have no reason to stay here."

Of course, that wouldn't be the last time you saw him.

You were a tenacious human being, always so insistent in dragging him away from his lonesome personality. He resides in the forest and camps there for the time being (similar to Linus since they’re both homeless lol). But you’d always run in, DAILY and sometimes for the most stupid and mundane reasons. It could either be giving him the snacks you snatched off the table since Xiao refused to participate in parties, or fancy seashells you found on the beach. You didn’t want him to miss out on all those things of course! Although he responds with irritation, it was as if his words went through your ear and then out the other. His efforts were futile (however, he was slowly warming up without realizing).

He learns how easily his body reacts in the presence of food purely because he was hungry. You bring an extra set of blankets and pillows to his campsite when the ones you gave him wore out (he didn’t ask by the way). Xiao needed help whether he liked it or not since he no longer has his powers, hence he couldn't run away. He somehow ends up moving in to live on the small islands near your farm.

Xiao doesn't understand humans very much. Just as he was unable to understand how human emotions work. He was the almighty yaksha, Adeptus Xiao and a formidable beast that killed thousands in thousands of years, at least that's what he used to be. Even now he still has yet to figure out what he was or who he was exactly without a weapon to define his existence. He was made for battle but nowadays, he found himself watering plants, chopping down trees and throwing seeds to the chickens living in your coop. How did everything escalate to this? It baffles him, how much his life changed so drastically.

Haha, you’re Xiao of course! The greatest farming assistant I could ever have.

But above all else, the one thing Xiao couldn't understand among those universal questions, is you.

"Why are you doing all this?" Finally he asked. The urging thought had been persisting at the back of his mind ever since.

You stopped on your tracks and turned to look at him, tilting your head with a complexion made curious, "What do you mean? Ah, did I do something to bother you?"

"I didn't say that," Xiao interrupts abruptly, he folded his arms across his chest and shot you a deep contemplating gaze, " You're...incomprehensible. All I did was drag you out of that cave yet why are you so kind to me? Don't you think you're extending yourself too much just because of one little deed?"

Because to him, saving a life was the norm. He does it unconditionally just like you helped him with those same intentions. Except, Xiao had been pursuing corrupted souls behind the scenes all this time and expected nothing in return. Experiencing someone's gratitude was rather new.

You shook your head, "It wasn't small to me," a satisfactory smile melting onto your face, "I'm here at this very moment, feeling the wind against my skin and smelling the scent that nature carries, these are just the few things I cherish. It's thanks to you that I can still watch over grandpa's farm, that's why I don't feel like I'm overextending myself in any way," suddenly you beam at him, "At first I thought you were a scary person. Haha. Time flies so fast, it's amazing how much can happen in between."

"Hn, you're a simpleton. But that's not a bad thing..." he points out curtly yet softly, "Do as you wish, I won't stop you so feel free to call my name whenever you need my help. I'll be there."

Xiao also finds you to be very clumsy. He couldn't leave your side even for a minute. But that was a lie. He just grew very attached to you.

When you tell him that you've been going into the mines for a quest, he tells you that you're far from capable. So he teaches you how to wield a weapon properly. Xiao was a strict teacher and he intends to keep it that way, he wouldn’t even allow you to set foot in the mines until he finds you capable enough.

You were a meek yet optimistic person, yet you were also strong-willed.

For a place that wasn't his home, he felt it was. And he found that it was all in your presence. Those peaceful hours hiding inside the barn while a storm rages outside, you sit beside him while hugging a sheep close to your chest. Xiao learns how to feed some of them, he even brings seeds for your hen house too. If you were ever short on materials, Xiao would travel to the enchanted forest behind the wizard's tower and get them for you, no matter how late it was. Though if you went by yourself, he'd deliberately go with you despite your protest.

The minute Xiao realized how much he was attached to you, it was devastating. As if the claws of his karmic debt had come back, pulling him into the shadows once more. He was an adeptus with a contract and bound by his duty, he must choose between his god who saved him from a nightmare and you, the girl he fell for, showed him that the world was indeed a beautiful place, he was stuck in an equilibrium and he felt that the binds may even tear him apart if he kept resisting.

But when did he ever have a choice?

"Where are you going Xiao?"

When he heard your voice calling his name, the yaksha willingly pulled himself to a halt. His sunset eyes narrowing from guilt before it shuts with a trembling sigh out of his mouth. Why is it that you always appear during the moments where he desperately needs to get away from you? He planned to sneak out the door, making sure his footsteps were unheard while you slept. And by the time you woke up, he didn't have to face you, he wouldn't have to say goodbye. He won't. Even if what he was currently doing said otherwise. He will never hear himself say those words.

"Xiao?"

Yet, he cannot refuse you. Not now, not ever. You were breathtaken to see a type of expression that you never thought was possible for him to make. The creases that once formed between his slender brows, the heaviness he always carried in his expression was replaced by a sense of sentimentality. Before you could register what was happening, Xiao took his step towards the porch of your house, not once did he tear away from your attention. He slides his hand beneath your jaw and affectionately against your cheek, the fondness evident in his gaze that you almost felt imprisoned by it.

"You never fail to appear in the most inconvenient of times," He gives a weak smile, a smile that makes your heart swell. Despite how much you could drown in his honesty, you couldn’t help but feel there was something wrong, “No matter how many times I’ve tried to push you away.”

You don't know him. You don't know his history and what things he committed in the past. But as if you've known this whole time, Xiao couldn't picture you leaving him for those reasons.

“You’re gentle but you don’t let others put you down. You’re kind but you don’t allow it to be your weakness. I sometimes wonder how it is possible for anyone to be so forgiving?”

"I-I don’t understand why you’re this Xiao. Is something happening?”

He won’t tell you. He doesn’t see the reason why you need to know.

You wince when something poked the side of your neck and you realized it was a tranquilizer. You looked at Xiao with dismay, his face becoming hazier until your vision darkened and could no longer hold your own weight. Xiao caught you around the waist with one arm as you fell unconscious.

"How can you be so stupid...?"

But he speaks as if those words were meant for him.

Pulling your body closer to him, Xiao chains you down into a desperate embrace. A silent scream of desperation. His forehead pressed against the bent of your shoulder and the other arm rested his hand at the center of your back. He will relish in the shape of your body, memorizing every curve both perfections and flaws. The way you fit into his arms and the pleasant smell of nature that you taught him to love, this was the only remnant he was allowed to take. Every detail, he will remember it as if clinging to the last moments of his whole world.

If he was allowed to have a desire, let him meet you again. He prayed to a god, any god-- even if it meant damaging his oath, he will accept his punishment. He prayed to each star in the sky and if he must he'll pray to the devil himself, whatever it is, he will do it for you.

As he painfully lets go, Xiao lets his hand slide off your body until the last thing he felt was the very tips of your fingers. He settles you down gently into your bed. You belong here in this peaceful world, not the one riddled with monsters.

---

~Zhongli's Story~

The Skull Cavern was considered to be the most dangerous mine of Stardew Valley. It wasn't your intention to run into any trouble, all you wanted was to test your cool new galaxy sword on some easy monsters and then be on your merry way. At first.

Just one more floor. You say, before catching an arm sticking out a pile of rocks.

"I-Is that a person?!!!"

You dug as fast as you could, any time soon the mummies would wake up and start attacking. Quick quick! Moving the last rock, you saw the face of a young man, he was asleep but alive! and undeniably attractive oh wow *lip bite*. But despite your attempts of shaking him awake, it was fruitless and the monsters weren't waiting.

Taking out two warp totems, you raised it to the ceiling and chanted a teleportation spell.

It wasn't everyday that you brought a man to your house.

But when you did, he wouldn't be from a cave, six floors down and buried in a place filled with monsters.

"And this small black device you say is some form of communicator? That certainly is intriguing, never in my years have I heard of something so advanced."

However you were beginning to think otherwise. That this man would have been from the prehistoric ages who you managed to unbury after his thousand year slumber. Zhongli sits on the couch across from you while examining your smartphone, a term he claimed had been completely foreign. You were contemplating whether you should bother Harvey despite being past his work hour and book an emergency appointment to see if this man had a special case of amnesia.

You brushed the idea away. There was so much going on and nothing made sense, for now, you decided to settle this on your own.

"Uhm Zhongli is it?" you asked nervously, "Maybe you can try giving the name of a relative or someone you know. I can use the phonebook to see if I can find their number."

“Number?” He parroted.

You blinked a few times, making sure if you heard him correctly, “Yes, number. You know? To communicate?”

"I appreciate your kind gesture," Zhongli acknowledges in a polite manner, "But that won't be necessary. This device doesn’t seem to be at a level where it can communicate with the people from my homeland."

If he was travelling then how the hell did he end up in THE Skull Cavern is what I wanna know!

“T-Then if you don't mind me asking, where are you from?"

Zhongli takes this moment to think of an answer, aware that if he blurted something out it would not have translated in the way he wanted. But you so kindly invited him to your humble household that he felt it would only be proper to owe you an explanation, "I suppose a land from afar."

You sweatdropped, "Suppose?"

"Yes. Although I won't spare you the details since this is not your burden to bear, it’s quite difficult for me to try and remember exactly what happened," Zhongli took his chin into his hand, fingers almost covering his mouth, "Perhaps I would need search for clues in order to refresh my memory."

Oh no he really does have amnesia!!

"A-Actually why don't I just call the local doctor, I'm sure he wouldn't mind giving you a hand," you say while taking your iPhone.

"A doctor? There's no need," dismissed Zhongli, "My condition is only a minor one and I do not think I'm in a position to afford medical assistance. Besides, you have done more than enough. May you find great fortune in your years Miss (Y/n), I shall be on my way."

He pushes himself up from the couch and you watch him cross towards the door. But just when he was about to reach the space of your carpet, Zhongli pulled to an abrupt stop.

"Ah yes,” He began as if remembering something, “ Do you happen to know where the nearest Inn is located? I would need to find a place to shelter for the time being."

"..."

This was how the former god ended up being your roommate. Like Xiao, Zhongli also takes upon a human form. He needed to eat, drink and a place to sleep. He insisted that he would take the couch as well as help you with any tasks that needed to be completed during the day.

You question if Zhongli was even aware of what situation he was currently in. Answer: HE WASN'T because Zhongli is an extremely dense man. To feel embarrassed was not part of his dictionary when living with a woman.

The type to take long showers. You always find the bathroom steaming because he doesn't turn on the fan to get rid of it (but maybe you should've taught him). So when it was your turn to use the shower, the water was either lukewarm or worst case scenario, cold.

Also he somehow finds your old kettle (that your grandfather used) to brew tea even though you told him you already had a water boiler. He stated that he liked doing things the old-fashioned way, it brings him a sense of nostalgia. You couldn't understand what he meant (unless you considered that he was older than he seemed....no that can’t be it!)

Despite it all, Zhongli was incredibly polite and considerate. Tending the farm was not an easy job and you often came home with sore muscles, fatigued from running so many errands. He's knowledgeable in terms of making the best herbal mix for a soothing remedy.

You would see a warm cup, every morning before going to work and every time you come home, it was sitting on the kitchen table (if his drink had potion effects, they would be regeneration).

Gentle he was but it wasn't good for your heart.

Ever since Zhongli moved in, it became difficult to live in your own house.

There were many situations where he caused trouble despite not intending to cause disruption to your daily routine. And when he did, the repairs came out of your own pocket. One time you opened your microwave to find thick ash and burnt cinders stuck upon the walls.The entire space was a hazard and needed to be dispensed immediately since Zhongli thought that plastic-wrapped items were allowed to be microwaved. Another incident, as bizarre as it sounded, was when your vacuum cleaner zoomed out of your house...and never came back. You remembered the awkward cough he gave when you shot him a deathly glare, hence why Zhongli was not allowed to touch your high-tech devices (if you considered them high-tech) without your permission.

Even so, you couldn’t bring yourself to hate him. It was the opposite in fact. One day, all the flaws you counted suddenly became his charms. You came to find them endearing almost.

Zhongli was a handsome man. He carried himself with a distinct aura that could only be found in the rarest geodes; revealing orestones mined from the depths of a forgotten cave, sometimes in the shape of exquisite artifacts-- a type of ancient charm. Perhaps that was why people were willing to obey his every command without hesitation. Whenever Zhongli spoke, it was full of firmness and authority yet somehow deprived of arrogance. He was polite to all and does not indulge in conflict despite how tempting gossip can be in modern society. Always patient during your temperamental moments and considerate to the point you wonder if he even had any desires. He was so kind that soon enough, you couldn't help but be flustered by his presence. Forget about having a conversation, maintaining his leveled gaze was already enough of a challenge. Like staring into the sun after the morning dew. So gentle and so very comforting. But the more you linger onto the sun, it's rays will continue to set ablaze, eventually bringing you pain.

And you feared that you have grown addicted to those feelings.

Why can't he understand?

Stopping at the center of the bridge, you kept your head low while letting the anger take form into your tightened fists. The town was empty with only the sound of water flowing beneath your feet, filling the heavy air. They rippled and swayed, peaceful amongst your inner turmoil. The fact that such a miniscule attribute was able to make your blood rise was hilariously pitiful. How did you stoop to a point that even nature, the very being you've tended for a living, could bring you bitterness? Were your feelings this uncontrollable? The answer was obvious. It spiraled, violently and mercilessly as if commanded by another. There was a wave of emotions filling your heart and you could almost feel yourself drowning from the inside. If only they were as tranquil as the ones you stood upon.

"I thought I would find you here."

The voice you dreaded calls from across and you fight to keep yourself from gasping. Oblivious to it all, Zhongli proceeds to close the distance until he towered over you, looking down to your bowed head, "When you hadn't returned home without a notice, I was getting worried if something had happened. But I'm glad that wasn't the case."

Your whole face clenches.

"Is something bothering you? If you would like, we can discuss it after eating dinner. Come, I have already prepared our meal while you were gone as well as turning off the rice cooker once finished. I hope it can ease your stress since I know it can be difficult maintaining a farm like this."

"Zhongli."

He blinks hard when the sound of his name falls out of your lips. Zhongli was an experienced observer and listener, he was able to catch the glimpse of frustration that dripped from the tone you used. Relaxing his poised shoulders, Zhongli carefully asked in a reserved manner, "Have I...done something to make you upset?"

A trembled breath escaped when you breathed out. Dense. He was so dense that sometimes it made you want to crack him open.

"Tell me..." you began, "Are you also like this with other women?"

The former god sets a brief sharp pause, "I beg your pardon?"

"I'm talking about the way you act, they're...giving me all these mixed signals. We've been living together for months, we even share meals together! And sometimes you would help me with the farm and when I didn't ask, you still insisted on tending to my needs when I felt sick. I just…” you trailed off, trembling ever so slightly, "It's all perfectly normal. You’re nice to everyone. I know that. I know that!"

"(Y/n)," Zhongli whispered. They sounded like a thousand needles to your heart.

"I doubt you have the intention to put me in this situation. You're a really great person Zhongli but I sometimes can't help feeling this isn't just some roommate thing you know?" closing your eyes, you thought of your past relationships, how they started and ended, "Do any of your actions mean anything to you? Do you know how it makes me feel? Or am I just overthinking this, that it was all one-sided this whole time?"

Alas the truth spills and the air stills, bringing the waves to a halt. Peace, tranquility, nothingness. That was all you wanted. That was all you heard. It was deafening.

"I see, so that's why," Zhongli mutters to himself with eyes narrowed, "There's...something I need to confess."

After several months, he tells you everything. How his memories returned, some of them were already intact. He told you about his homeland and his true identity, that he was a god that once ruled over Liyue for six centuries before giving away the gnosis.

The reason why he hadn't said anything until now was because there will be a day where Zhongli must depart and return to Teyvat. He was a god with a contract, the circumstance didn't matter, he must stay with it until the very end of time.

Through his years, Zhongli learned to cherish his finite moments. He didn't want to taint them with troubles to come. Thinking too far ahead into the future would only bring strain.

But what he didn't tell you was his true feelings. You were a sweet woman, tender and enthusiastic about agriculture, the way your feelings extend to the earth with grace whereas many others chose to trample over without hesitation, he fell deeply in love with that side of yours. You taught him many things and showed him many sides of humanity that he had never seen before. He even discovered an aspect of himself. Like breaking a geode, revealing the beauties held inside.

Zhongli couldn't look you in the eye when your expression was covered in disbelief. He thought he hid his feelings well but it seemed that he was expressing his love in subtle and subconscious ways that eventually drove you to fall for him as well. You didn't stop him when he left the bridge. He wasn't even in your house. He chose this, he chose to set you free from his heavy presence.

And as the weight started to lift from your shoulder, you sank to your knees and wept. It was cruel of him. To give you these emotions yet he could not bring himself to stay by your side. But your heart would not allow you to hate the man you love.

Things couldn't end this way. You had to say goodbye to him, see him one last time because if you didn't, these burdens will haunt you forever.

When Zhongli looked up to the sky he saw his ending drawing near.

Three days had passed since he last spoke with you and he had no plans in seeing you again. Soon, the former god will return to his rightful place. Even though he had already given his gnosis to the Cryo Archon as Liyue already began to enter a new era, it seems that his decisions weren't his to make as he was born in a world where stars ruled above the archons. Fate-- they won't allow it. He does not belong here. If there was one thing Zhongli regretted during his time in your world, it was that he couldn't leave you a good memory before taking his departure. The sight of your large glassy eyes and quivering lips when he crushed you with the truth, he sincerely believed that they would haunt him much more than it probably did to you. But perhaps things would be easier if you despised him. Because if he had stayed and you came to forgive him, he would no longer have the strength to let go.

Despite it all love was indeed a selfish creature. He couldn't help but feel resentment towards the stars for bringing you into his life in such a mockingly sweet manner. They tied him with a contract, made him vow to his own beliefs and tested them by using you-- a bystander struck between the crossfire, eventually bringing you down into the depths of his battlefield and he thought that maybe...maybe there was hope that he could bring you with him as well.

How disgraceful for a god to let the devil tempt him so.

Zhongli was thankful that you weren't beside him. Otherwise he would dance with the ugly hope of a slim chance for you to come along. This was the best choice. It was for his-- your own good.

"Zhongli!"

The arch of his lined eyes shot upwards. As if fate had decided to give him one final test, he felt your small figure crash into him from behind and your arms coming to hug around his waist, tightly and fearfully that he felt like you would be the one who would slip away instead.

"I...I made it time," you panted, burying your nose into his clothed back, "I’m so glad...I'm so glad you're still here…!"

Your cry of relief was a thunder to his ears, a reminder that he was the main cause. Zhongli, casted by solemn smile, lifts his hand to cover over yours and grasped onto them, I'm here, he wishes to say. Yet he knew they were only temporary promises, "To come all this way despite everything that has happened. You foolish girl..."

"It's your fault Zhongli, I'm a fool because I love you! It's all your fault that I have to say goodbye," You grit your teeth as the tears fell down your face until it blended into his clothes, "Take me with you. Please. Don't leave me all alone…!"

The words he wanted to say melted into a silent gasp through parted lips. Zhongli merely clenched them back together and his hand on your hand, even tighter. He won't lie to you. At the very least, let his actions speak for him where he himself could not.

Take me with you.

Don't leave me alone.

Goodbye.

If it is fated Morax...we will meet again.

"I see," letting his thoughts echo in his mind from the distant memories, the former god begins to take a new perspective upon his wisdom, "For many years, I have experienced countless farewells from the people I've come to known," Zhongli reminisced, tilting his head back with his golden eyes against night, as if searching for some sort of answer, "And yet I never thought what it must have felt like being in their position."

"Zhongli…" you trailed off, "Then don't! I may not know everything about you but it doesn't have to be this way. At least, just answer me this, will I ever see you again?"

"I'm sorry (Y/n)," he apologized and you knew the answer. He gently pries your arms off him, turning around so he could swipe the corner of your eyes dry. There was a glowing reverence in his countenance, one that he reserved for you and only you, it was the only way for him to express the feelings that run deep in his heart, "I cannot thank you enough for coming into my life. If there will be a day when I erode from your memories, I truly hope that you will find someone more suitable than I."

"That's ridiculous," defiantly, refusedly, you protest, "No one can replace you."

Zhongli laughs sadly as the white halo outlines his whole figure, signaling that there wasn't much time left. He wonders if there was anything he could do in his last moments, a small token, something, it could even be as small as a single star in the sky, "If it is fated...we will meet again."

You watch him turn transparent until he slipped from your grasp. No longer was the man, only the dust being one with the sky. They shone brilliantly but you were left in the darkness.

[tarnished-doll]

Certified Freak - NSFW Godrick/Reader [wip/preview]

this is literally only half of the leadup bc im 4.6k in and i just got to the explicitness, but writing takes longer than drawing and i love attention and i like stirring the hornet’s nest of thirst that has been built outside my proverbial doorstep. so im throwing this out into the ether. when i finish this i’ll throw it up on ao3

cw for: character-typical violence. like, c’mon.

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You knew you shouldn’t stare so brazenly at him, but there was so much to stare at you couldn’t tear your eyes away. The Lord of Limgrave - the Spider of nightmarish rumors throughout the land - was a sight unlike anything you’ve ever known.

And what a sight he made, enormous beyond even the Omen grunts in his employ. The man was hunched over from the weight of many limbs across his shoulders and back, all of them revealed to the stunned crowd of pilgrims. Godrick shuffled unevenly with his massive, composite legs, but there was still a sort of swagger to his movements; a confident, dramatic posturing that kept everyone’s eyes on him. Most of all, yours. There was no denying, as monstrous as he had made his body, his face was untouched. And it was… handsome.

You had no time to unpack all that now. He was making his way down the line of Tarnished sacrifices, inspecting some at a glance and pulling others forward to tug their limbs outward in a painful, degrading appraisal. Some people were more frightened than others, but some still were almost enraptured by his presence. This was the blood of Godfrey, after all. For some, this man was the true heir to the throne, for better or worse.

One by one, pilgrims were either tossed aside to be dragged back into the graftsurgeon’s lab, or they were personally harvested by the Lord himself. Godrick would use his axe for the occasion; it was a heavy, inelegant option when a butcher’s cleaver or just a sword would do better, but there was a sort of fanfare about it you could tell he was milking. It was a performance almost, his show of power and tyranny. The axe blade fell heavily, like a guillotine, to sever a stranger’s arm at the shoulder. Your pulse quickened. The new limb was taken, cradled by the bouquet of arms on Godrick’s back and carefully placed in the free space along his shoulders. The graft set in, and the hand began to twitch and writhe back to life, under new, complete ownership. You felt the heat rise in your cheeks.

A sellsword with a particularly fit body was beside you, though not by choice, judging by his bound hands in front of him. He would be a likely candidate, someone Godrick would dramatically pull apart and strip all usefulness from for his audience. His audience may as well have been solely you at this rate; you were the one staring with wide and captivated eyes when everyone else bowed their head, or looked away and wept. He was going to dismember someone right next to you, and the thought only made your heart pound and your skin prick with an electric current of excitement.

When it came time for Godrick to look upon the sellsword, he was closer to you than ever before. What a beast he was, twisted with so many parts of other people he stopped being human himself. You could see underneath the drapery that did a flimsy job of covering him that whole pieces of people had been grafted to him. Bolstering him, making an armor in itself for whatever was truly left of him. This should be disgusting. This should be the most horrible thing you’ve ever seen. Why couldn’t you look away?

The grafted man pointed in your direction with one of his enormous ‘main’ hands. You froze before remembering the man next to you. The better candidate. The sellsword trembled, but he had a determined look of hatred on his face as a soldier pushed him forward. You were close enough that you could see Godrick’s eyes light up in cruel delight at the man’s position before him.

“A vagrant such as you is a waste of parts. You should be honored to provide your Lord with a humble sacrifice.”

“Fuck you.” The man spat at Godrick in one last, bold attempt at rebellion. It made the demigod’s smug face screw up into an offended grimace. You held your breath.

The impact of Godrick’s huge, six-fingered hand against the man’s face was enough to nearly fling him into you. You flinched backward with a gasp, feeling a fleck of warm blood hit against your chin. Driven at your feet, the sellsword groaned from the pain of a visibly shattered face.

“Insolent.” the Lord grumbled through clenched teeth, his elongated arm reaching down to pick up the sellsword by the scruff without needing to bend down. He let the axe blade fall on the man’s shoulder, close enough that you were sprayed with vibrant, arterial blood. It was so… disconcertingly warm. As it cooled on your skin you shivered from feeling the wind dry it on your face.

The man’s screams faded along with his life as Godrick took what he wanted. He reached back to graft the new limb close to the back of his neck, stooping slightly to do so in front of you. You couldn’t tear your eyes away from the private show; the veins of the new limb bulged as new blood was forcibly pumped through it. Its muscles twitched and its fingers curled as Godrick acquainted himself with its presence on his person. You were so taken by this display of profane power and violent conquest that the crowd of weeping, wailing and dying peasantry were simply not present anymore. It was just you, and him, and it was only when you heard a low chuckle rumble from his throat that you realized he was staring too. At you.

“Are ye thoroughly entertained?” His tone was sardonic, but amused. His smile was crooked, with his imperfect teeth and dry, chapped lips. You felt your face burn with a sudden embarrassment, and pointed your gaze towards the corpse on the ground.

“Sorry, my Lord.”

“No, no, by all means: take it in.” Godrick leaned forward - far too close, enough for you to hear the writhing of his grafted limbs as they curled in a display of his power over them. “Are you enjoying the show, little voyeur? I’ve felt your wandering eyes on me this entire time.”

Did he really notice…? You stole a careful glance back up at his face and saw his smile turn sadistic. He thought you were gawking with fear. Well, he wasn’t wrong, but it was certainly more than just fear.

“... I am, my Lord.” You gathered up your courage, emboldened by knowing your fate was probably sealed. You looked up at him with no fear in your eyes, but instead the enraptured interest you had kindling within you from the beginning.

The grafted man sniffed dismissively. “Flattery won’t ensure you leave in one piece.”

“It’s not flattery-” You spoke out of turn too quickly, bringing back that offended sneer on his face. You shrank away submissively, and turned your gaze downward once more. “I am not flattering you. I am… admiring you.”

He snorted, at first, and let out a fake-sounding laugh. He turned to his subordinates, who spared the briefest of uneasy chuckles. He didn’t look the least bit convinced as his upper lip curled over his yellowed teeth.

“Do not mock me, you little shit, or I’ll have you dragged back to the labs and used for my bastards, instead. Your limbs won’t even get the privilege of adorning me.”

You took a measured breath, and stared up at him with twice as much conviction. This wasn’t about surviving him anymore; this was about convincing him. Of what, you weren’t entirely sure you were ready to unpack yourself.

“I do not mock you, my Lord. I am speaking the truth. You are… a lot to admire, and I could not look away; forgive me for my rudeness.”

His yellow eyes narrowed, disbelieving and even more offended by what he saw as an act of insolence. He stared you down, daring you to look away, and when you didn’t balk nor blink in the presence of his genuinely frightening expression, he seemed to… deflate, just a bit. His broad shoulders slumped.

He spared no further words for you, walking off to address one of the men standing at attention for him. You didn’t hear the words he bent down to speak into the soldier’s ear, but the helmeted man did a double take over it. Godrick gave the man a firm slap on the shoulder that made the soldier cringe.

You watched Godrick leave the courtyard, your heart sinking. He didn’t believe you, and now you were going to die for an offense you didn’t mean. For some reason, the idea that you couldn’t properly convey your reverence for him was more upsetting than the death thing.

The soldier he spoke to approached you soon after, taking you roughly by the arm. “Come with me.”

Ah, to labs it is, then. Now the fear truly set in for you. Ironic that it would be the idea of being brutalized and stripped of your usefulness by his many scion bastards that was more upsetting than being grafted by the Lord of Limgrave himself.

You were dragged through the castle grounds with no explanation of where, or why. The soldier simply did his job, and when he brought you to the right place, he promptly left. He handed you off not to a graftsurgeon, but to a handmaid. 

The servant quietly led you to, oddly enough, a bath that was still being filled by servants. She gestured at the steaming water disinterestedly. “Our Lord wants you properly cleaned and dressed before he’ll grant you the grace of his presence.”

Wait, what?

You could only let out a confused sound as you were firmly guided by the shoulder towards the water. In moments, the servants went to work on cleaning you, whether you had a say or not.

You were scrubbed clean of blood, sweat and grime. Your hair was shampooed and your body was patted down with perfume. You were suddenly the cleanest you’ve ever been in your life. A robe of luxurious golden silk replaced your peasant rags, and only then did the gravity of the situation hit you. Godrick wanted to see you. He had taken an interest in you… or at least your interest in him.

The maids sent you off with still-damp, combed hair and a half-hearted good luck. Another servant was there to pick you up when you stepped out of the washroom, and you found yourself whisked away once more. You were trembling with excitement. And fear. And… various other things you weren’t sure you wanted to get into. You were fascinated by the man, sure, but you still grappled with that. You didn’t think yourself to be a deviant, or anything. You never before considered such strange desires as the form Godrick had made for himself. It wasn’t normal, and he knew that. It… intrigued him, you were realizing. He was going to humor you.

You hoped.

Godrick’s throne was as massive as he was, and yet he still seemed to have too many limbs to fit without them spilling out over the sides and over the back. He lounged leisurely, one horrible composite leg stretched languidly out as he leaned towards one side. His axe leaned against the arm of his seat, a hand absentmindedly toying with the pommel. Another pair of hands were rebraiding his long, white hair, and yet another was holding a goblet of wine. He was in his element, though the performative swagger in his body language never left. He still had a guest to entertain, after all.

His multitasking ceased when you were brought before him. Your servant escort bowed plaintively, and wasted no time in leaving the two of you alone. Whatever was about to happen, they weren’t about to witness.

“Ah, my voyeur.” The echo of his rough voice rang through the high ceiling of the throne room, drawing your attention back to him. He paused to take a deliberately leisurely sip of his cup, hooded eyes still picking you apart much like yours did to him. “You clean up well, now that we’ve scrubbed the lowborn filth off of you.”

Awkwardly, you did a cross between a bow and a curtsey, unsure of how to address him in a way that wouldn’t be groveling. You’d probably be groveling here pretty soon, at least. “Thank you, my Lord. For- for the clothes.”

“Hmph.” Godrick glanced away from you, feigning disinterest. A few of his arms stretched and cracked their knuckles. “So, are you pleased with this development? Be truthful, now.”

Excitement sparked your fingertips and lingered on your lips, leaving an almost tingling sensation. You swallowed hard. “I am, my Lord.”

Godrick scowled at the frankly smitten look that was probably on your face. “I said: be truthful.”

“I am speaking the truth.” You insisted. Your eyes didn’t leave him. “I am very grateful to be brought before you, and not, um, grafted or killed, or anything.”

There wasn’t much else to say other than that. At least, without accidentally pushing it too far in saying you were excited to be the object of his interest, be that positive or negative. He cleaned you and dressed you up and you knew you were wearing nothing under this robe. You knew what was coming next, even if he was playing hard to get.

The grafted man regarded you with disdain, though you could see some semblance of confusion in his eyes. He straightened up in his seat, making sure to tower over you even more to glare down his nose at you.

“Tell me then, little Tarnished: are you really of such strange tastes that you find all this arousing?” He gestured broadly to his giant, grafted body, his arms fanning out like the courtship display of an exotic bird. You blushed at the brazen question.

“Ah, well, I do find you to be… h-handsome.”

Your voice broke. Godrick gave you a disappointed look as his arms fell back into resting positions. You hoped that your red face would at least impart some believability to your words as you stammered over your conflicted feelings.

“I find you to be… fascinating. Desirable, in a rare way. It’s- it’s hard to explain-”

“Stop.” Godrick’s tone was flat. “Don’t waste my time. Now, answer me this: do you find me monstrous?”

Well… any answer would probably get you pulled apart. So you might as well tell the truth.

“Is monstrous really supposed to be a bad thing?”

The domineering look on the demigod’s face faltered, his eyes growing just a little wider and his sneer falling as he was faced with an answer he had to really think about. You demurely turned your gaze back down to the floor.

You swore you could almost hear a soft, melancholy sigh from the man. With a lurch he got onto his awkward feet, his center of balance understandably out of whack from his asymmetrical body shape. He gave you an expectant look as one of his arms motioned for you to follow.